US President Donald Trump has denied reports suggesting that he was willing to offer Iran sanctions relief in exchange for concessions regarding its nuclear programme. Trump responded to the claims on Truth Social, stating, “This is untrue. I offered them NOTHING.” The report, which originated from Axios, cited US officials alleging that Washington might consider economic relief if Tehran made specific commitments concerning its nuclear activities.

This denial comes in the context of ongoing indirect diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran. These efforts are being facilitated through mediators from Qatar and Pakistan, who are working to broker a resolution to the protracted conflict that has lasted for seven months. Trump’s statement appears to counter speculation surrounding the US’s willingness to ease economic pressures on Iran.

Renewed Mediation Efforts Amid UN Assembly

The denial was issued as diplomatic activities intensified at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. On Monday, US and Iranian representatives engaged separately with mediators, aiming to explore potential pathways to resolve the ongoing tensions. Qatari mediators held discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, focusing on proposals that have surfaced during recent talks.

Source familiar with these discussions described the indirect negotiations as “positive and constructive,” although significant gaps still exist, particularly concerning nuclear issues and the sequencing of any proposed commitments. Both sides appear keen to seek a resolution, but fundamental differences remain unresolved.

Iran has articulated its desire for negotiations to encompass reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, the cessation of the US naval blockade, and securing sanctions relief. In contrast, the Trump administration maintains that any agreement must ensure substantial limitations on Iran’s nuclear programme. US officials continue to affirm their commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Iran’s Position and Expected Developments

Iran has reportedly stated that it is still awaiting a formal response from the United States concerning its latest proposals. Araghchi, who remained in New York following the UN General Assembly, indicated that Tehran had put forward its ideas and anticipates a clear US stance before determining its next actions. He noted that if the US genuinely seeks a diplomatic resolution, Tehran has already suggested potential frameworks for agreement.

The Iranian government has insisted that any potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is contingent upon the outcomes of ongoing negotiations and the fulfilment of its terms. This emphasis reflects Tehran’s insistence on a quid pro quo arrangement, wherein the US would need to reciprocate its commitments regarding sanctions and military presence in the region.

Further diplomatic interactions are expected to occur this week, particularly concerning a modified version of a seven-day proposal that Iran previously introduced during the General Assembly. According to individuals familiar with the negotiations, this proposal encompasses the cessation of hostilities, the release of Iranian assets that have been frozen, as well as relief from sanctions on Iranian oil exports and the lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports.

In exchange, Iran would agree to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume discussions surrounding its nuclear programme. Trump indicated over the weekend that he had turned down Iran’s broader offers, suggesting that Tehran is increasingly under economic duress. Nonetheless, he also hinted that further negotiations could be conducted this week as mediators persist in their efforts to bridge the divide between the two parties.

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