Trump Denies Reports of Lifting Sanctions Against Iran
October 1, Kathmandu – US President Donald Trump has denied reports by American officials suggesting that sanctions imposed on Iran would be lifted and frozen Iranian funds released if Tehran took concrete and flexible measures on its nuclear program. The news emerged amid renewed diplomatic efforts in New York, led by mediators from Qatar and Pakistan, to ease tensions between the two countries. However, significant gaps remain over key issues between the parties.
Iran insists that the talks focus on ensuring unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the US blockade, while the Trump administration maintains that Iran must first agree to nuclear compliance. Although Trump rejected Iran’s recent ceasefire offer, indirect talks have raised hopes for diplomatic progress. Mediators in New York have met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss a proposal put forth by Qatar.
Qatari mediators have also scheduled meetings with US officials during the same visit. A US official familiar with the talks described the indirect negotiations as “positive and constructive” and indicated that Iran has shown some flexibility on nuclear issues. Nevertheless, significant differences remain, and the official noted that without decisive steps from Iran, an agreement is unlikely. According to the US side, vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is increasing, while US sanctions and blockades continue to weaken Iran’s position.
The White House has expressed skepticism about Iran’s assurances. In July, the US accused Iran of breaching a previous Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Therefore, the US wants confirmation that Iran is genuinely serious this time and seeking to overcome its difficult circumstances. Following the release of this report, President Donald Trump took to social media to refute it, labeling the media coverage as false and asserting that he has made no proposal to lift sanctions or return frozen Iranian funds.