US and Iran near framework deal despite lingering differences, according to Axios
via Egypt Today2 min read
US and Iranian negotiators have made progress in talks, moving closer to a potential framework agreement to end the ongoing conflict, according to US officials cited by Axios. The discussions, mediated by Egypt, Pakistan, and T眉rkiye, aim to narrow remaining differences before a ceasefire expires on April 21. Despite the progress, US officials and sources familiar with the mediation caution that a final agreement remains uncertain due to significant gaps between Washington and Tehran. President Donald Trump's negotiating team, including Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and senior adviser Jared Kushner, engaged in intensive backchannel communications, exchanging proposals with mediators and Iranian officials. Reports suggest Washington and Tehran might return to Islamabad for another round of talks after an earlier round ended without a breakthrough. A high-level Pakistani delegation, led by Army Chief Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran to facilitate negotiations. Trump expressed optimism, stating the conflict, under a two-week ceasefire, is "very close to over" and talks may resume soon, potentially leading to an agreement.
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