Iran says US talks ongoing under seven-step plan, sees chance for progress soon

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that exchanges between Iran and the United States are ongoing, noting that the deputy minister recently visited Qatar to facilitate consultations.

Speaking at his weekly press conference, Baghaei explained that negotiations with the US are based on an Iranian seven-step proposal, and that there is an opportunity to implement this plan in the coming days.

Baghaei, quoted by the Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA), added that Tehran has clearly outlined its legitimate demands to the US side, describing the fulfillment of these demands as essential for ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz.

He denied any changes to the Iranian negotiating team, clarifying that management of the file and decision-making remain the responsibility of the Cabinet, headed by the president, with participation from the Foreign Ministry and other relevant state institutions.

Baghaei confirmed that Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi continue to lead the negotiations, with coordination and understanding among the key Iranian decision-makers.

He noted that the Iranian diplomatic initiative, known as the “Seven-Day Plan,” was discussed in detail during the Iranian delegation’s visit to New York, and that views on the proposal have been exchanged with the other side through intermediaries.

Baghaei stated that the initiative remains on the table, and that the Iranian proposal forms the basis of ongoing talks. He emphasized that Tehran has presented its demands transparently, and that the decision now rests with Washington.

He stressed that no final agreement can be reached, nor can the Strait of Hormuz be reopened and secured, before the US naval blockade ends and Iran’s demands are met, considering these conditions as the main prerequisite for resuming negotiations.

Baghaei said that putting forward this initiative demonstrates “Tehran’s goodwill,” adding that meeting Iran’s demands could restore security in the Strait of Hormuz in a short period and pave the way for broader negotiations, depending on the US position and approach in the next phase.