Reports indicate that the United States and Israel are preparing to resume strikes on Iran within days if negotiations show no progress. In response, mediating countries such as Qatar and Pakistan are reportedly intensifying efforts to extend a ceasefire and establish a framework for further negotiations.
According to a report by Yonhap News on May 23, citing the Wall Street Journal, the current goal of the negotiations is to extend the unstable ceasefire that has been in place since May 8, rather than to reach a formal peace agreement. The aim is to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) or a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate future discussions.
The Trump administration insists that any agreement must include restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Conversely, Iran argues that the focus should first be on ending the war, lifting restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, and easing financial sanctions. The two sides have reportedly been unable to narrow their differences on which issues should be included in an immediate agreement and which should be deferred to future negotiations.
If even a limited agreement fails, there is a possibility that the U.S. and Israel will conduct short-term strikes targeting Iran's energy infrastructure and other economic facilities. This would be a measure to increase pressure on the Iranian regime, but Iran has warned that it would respond with extensive retaliation if new attacks occur.
Mediators are also acting swiftly. General Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, visited Tehran on May 22, and a Qatari negotiating team is reportedly staying in the region to continue mediation efforts. Saudi Arabia has also warned Iran that failing to reach an agreement could escalate the situation further.
The U.S. maintains that Iran must agree to a long-term halt of its uranium enrichment program and the transfer of nuclear materials close to weapons-grade levels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on May 22 in Brussels that while there has been “some progress,” the U.S. position remains unchanged: it cannot accept Iran possessing nuclear weapons.
Reports suggest that President Trump has repeatedly warned of the possibility of resuming attacks on Iran if negotiations break down, and if military action is taken, Israel is likely to join. Concerns have also been raised within Israel that President Trump might agree to a deal that does not sufficiently curb Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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