Iran's Foreign Minister has accused the United States of prioritizing the 2028 presidential election over stalled negotiations on a 2026 deal, as a new figure shows only 28.5% support for reconstruction funding tied to the agreement. The criticism underscores growing frustration in Tehran over what it sees as Washington's lack of urgency.
Why the US election is a sticking point
The Foreign Minister said the US administration is more focused on the 2028 election cycle than on resolving the impasse. He argued that domestic political calculations are driving Washington's approach, leaving the 2026 deal in limbo. The remarks came during a press conference where he reiterated Iran's willingness to negotiate but insisted the US must show genuine commitment.
The 28.5% figure
A reported figure indicates that only 28.5% of respondents approve of funding for reconstruction as part of the 2026 deal. The low number suggests limited public appetite for the financial commitments the agreement would require. It's unclear whether the poll was conducted inside Iran or among international stakeholders, but the data point has become a talking point in the stalled talks.
Stalled talks and what's next
Negotiations over the 2026 deal have been at a standstill for months. The US has not set a date for the next round, and Iran says it won't return to the table without concrete progress on reconstruction funding. The Foreign Minister warned that continued delays could undermine the entire framework. No new talks have been scheduled, and the gap between the two sides appears to be widening.
