Iran casts doubt on Sunday signing of US deal memorandum

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, announced that the anticipated Islamabad memorandum will not be signed on Sunday, casting doubt on an immediate breakthrough in negotiations linked to discussions between Tehran and Washington. Baghaei stated that while signing in the coming days is possible, caution is advised due to the other side's hesitation.

This announcement follows conflicting signals from various parties. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry had previously stated that U.S.-Iran negotiations had entered their final stage with a signing ceremony scheduled for Sunday. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had also expressed optimism, indicating that a framework for a peace deal had been agreed upon after months of heightened tensions, and that Pakistan was preparing for an electronic signing.

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan welcomed the progress in the negotiations, and a senior U.S. administration official voiced optimism about a strong deal. However, Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, have maintained a more cautious stance, suggesting that while Iran emerged stronger from the conflict, key concerns, particularly regarding its nuclear program, remain unresolved.

Reports from diplomatic sources indicate that discussions have encompassed topics such as sanctions relief, maritime access, regional security arrangements, and trade restrictions. Iranian negotiators reportedly have no immediate plans to travel for face-to-face talks.