Following the first round of direct U.S.-Iran talks held in Islamabad in April this year, the standoff between Tehran and Washington continues. However, recently, because of renewed mediatory efforts by Pakistan to sustain the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, followed by a comprehensive agreement covering contentious issues, one can observe some momentum for peace in the Persian Gulf and West Asia.

The U.S. President, Donald Trump, the other day hoped that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) could be reached with Tehran, leading to a final agreement (deal) in the coming four to six weeks. Does it mean that gaps in U.S.-Iran positions have been narrowed, if not bridged, and how can the two adversaries, locked in a perpetual state of conflict since 1979, move ahead towards full normalisation in their relations? How can the minimum bridging of gaps in U.S.-Iranian conflicts at least set the ball rolling and create a conducive environment for better diplomatic engagement?

One can identify eight gaps in U.S.-Iran conflicts. These gaps are the result of deep-rooted mistrust and suspicions. First, the nuclear issue, which the U.S. and Israel focus on as a fundamental requirement for ending hostilities with Tehran. Second, the unfreezing of Iranian assets by the United States. Third, ending sanctions on Iran by the U.S. Fourth, a commitment by the U.S. not to attack Iran again. Fifth, reopening the Strait of Hormuz for all users. Sixth, payment of compensation by the U.S. and Israel for the destruction caused in Iran. Seventh, Iran is stopping its support for proxies like Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. Eighth, ending American-Israeli attempts at regime change in Iran. These gaps are regarded as critical and fundamental for preventing another round of hostilities in the Persian Gulf.

The foremost gap in the U.S.-Iranian position is the nuclear issue. For Iran, it is out of the question to hand over its enriched uranium to some other body or to forgo its nuclear ambitions. After the June 2025 and February 2026 U.S.-Israeli attacks, the Iranian nuclear control and command structure was........

© The Friday Times