Iran Says Deal 'Never Been Closer' as Final Reviews Underway
Speaking on state television, Baghaei confirmed that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's earlier characterization of the proposed Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding as having "never been closer" accurately captured the current state of the talks.
"At present, understanding has been reached on the majority of the issues, and we are in the final stage of internal reviews," Baghaei said.
He added that meetings involving relevant Iranian institutions were actively underway to examine the draft text and determine Tehran's final position — a process he described as requiring full consensus across key authorities before any agreement could receive official approval.
Tehran Blames Washington for Delays
Despite the cautious optimism, Baghaei pushed back sharply against any suggestion that Iran had dragged its feet. He argued that a deal could have been concluded weeks earlier, but accused the US side of repeatedly shifting its positions, issuing contradictory statements, and introducing new demands that unnecessarily prolonged the negotiations.
He also flatly rejected accusations that Tehran had approached the talks in bad faith, insisting that Iran had remained constructive and consistent throughout the process.
On swirling media speculation about the deal's contents, Baghaei urged restraint.
"None of the published reports can be officially confirmed," he said, adding that details would be announced once a final conclusion is reached.
Araghchi's X Post Signals Momentum
The spokesman's remarks came hours after Foreign Minister Araghchi posted on X — the US-owned social media platform — stating that the proposed Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between Iran and the United States "has never been closer," while urging journalists and media outlets to avoid speculation until the process reaches its conclusion.
The Pakistan-mediated negotiations have centered on three core issues: ending hostilities between Iran and the United States, reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international maritime traffic, and reaching a durable consensus on Iran's nuclear program.
Iranian officials have consistently maintained that a substantial portion of the draft text is already agreed upon, while continuing to point the finger at Washington for slowing momentum through inconsistent messaging and shifting red lines.
With internal reviews now in their final stage, the coming days are expected to be decisive.
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