Citing two regional sources, CNN reported on 24/3 that Iranian representatives informed the administration of US President Donald Trump of their preference to negotiate with Vice President JD Vance, rather than resuming talks with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
This message, conveyed through unofficial channels to Washington, indicates Tehran's belief that Witkoff and Kushner's involvement would be ineffective. This stance stems from a deep lack of trust following failed negotiations prior to the US-Israel attack on Iran.
According to sources, the US Vice President is perceived as more open to a resolution and genuinely desiring an end to hostilities. "Many believe Vance is determined to bring the conflict to an end," one source stated.
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US Vice President JD Vance during his visit to India in 4/2025. *Photo: AFP*
However, stakeholders also acknowledge that Vance's involvement in negotiations carries risks, as reaching a negotiated end to the fighting will not be straightforward, especially with Witkoff still representing the US and heavily involved in related matters.
Sources indicate Iran likely has no choice but to engage with any representative the Trump administration sends. "Regardless of who the US decides to send, Iran will have to work with that person, but this does not mean they do not have their own preferences," a second source noted.
President Trump previously stated that all key members of his diplomatic team, including Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are involved in negotiations with Iran. The US President also expressed optimism that an agreement is imminent.
When questioned about changing his stance despite previously stating he did not want a ceasefire, Trump affirmed that Iran is engaging with the US and "saying reasonable things." He emphasized, "Remember that it all has to start with them not being able to possess nuclear weapons. We are discussing that. I don't want to get ahead of myself, but they have agreed to never possess nuclear weapons."
Iran has not yet commented on these reports.
The US has reportedly presented Iran with a 15-point peace plan to end hostilities, as the conflict enters its fourth week. According to details of the plan revealed to the media, one key US demand is for Iran to relinquish all current nuclear capabilities, cease uranium enrichment, and permanently commit to not pursuing nuclear weapons.
Washington also demands that Tehran transfer all enriched material according to a mutually agreed roadmap and close its nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow.
*Huyen Le (Source: CNN, Channel 12)*
