US Vice President JD Vance has lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, describing them as exceptional hosts and statesmen for their pivotal role in mediating dialogue between the United States and Iran. He highlighted their efforts in enabling discussions between Washington and Tehran, which have not engaged in high-level talks for an extended period.
In an interview with Fox News, Vance emphasized the significance of this diplomatic engagement, noting it marked the first occasion in the current Iranian leadership’s tenure that such senior-level meetings occurred. He expressed appreciation for both Pakistani leaders, stating their involvement was instrumental in facilitating these conversations.
Vance remarked, “We had some productive discussions with the Iranian delegation. This was a notable breakthrough, and we did achieve some progress in the negotiations.” He underscored the importance of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, affirming that the US has made its position clear regarding the removal of nuclear material from Iranian territory.
Further, Vance outlined that the United States has established firm red lines in its talks with Tehran. He conveyed cautious optimism about the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route. “We need to see the Strait of Hormuz fully open,” he said, adding that Iran had attempted to alter terms during the negotiations.
The fragile 14-day ceasefire with Iran, initiated the previous week, was partly contingent on Tehran’s commitment to reopening the strait, Vance. This development represents a key step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions between the two nations.
