Vance Says Iran Nuclear Talks in Doha Making Progress, Warns US Ready to Act if Needed

Washington: US Vice President JD Vance has said negotiations with Iran in Doha are progressing positively, while making it clear that the Donald Trump administration remains prepared to use military force if Tehran resumes its nuclear programme or threatens commercial shipping.

Speaking to reporters before departing from Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia aboard Air Force Two, Vance said officials from the United States, Iran, Qatar and other countries were discussing the next phase of engagement following recent US military strikes on Iranian targets.

"Right now the negotiators are sitting down with the Iranians, with the Qataris and with others in Doha. It's still pretty early, but the talks are going well," Vance said.

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He noted that the immediate priority is ensuring the safe movement of commercial shipping through the region, adding that falling energy prices reflected improving market confidence. According to Vance, the administration will next focus on addressing concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear programme.

While reaffirming Washington's commitment to diplomacy, Vance stressed that military action remains an option if Iran attempts to rebuild its nuclear capabilities or resumes attacks on commercial vessels.

"The President's not going to send our military back in unless he has to, unless there's a clearly defined purpose for it," he said. "If they try to rebuild their nuclear programme or start shooting at commercial vessels again, that will change our calculus."

Vance said President Trump has instructed his team to negotiate "in good faith" while approaching the talks from what he described as a position of strength.

Commenting on Iran's internal politics, Vance said he believes there is growing support within the country for improving ties with the United States, Europe and Gulf nations, although some factions remain committed to past policies. He added that Washington intends to give diplomacy every opportunity to succeed but warned that any refusal by Iran to allow international inspections or any move to restart sensitive nuclear activities would prompt a stronger US response.

During the interaction, Vance also dismissed questions about the 2028 US presidential election, saying his focus remains on delivering results for the American people rather than future political contests.

He also criticised a recent ruling by Supreme Court of the United States involving birthright citizenship, saying Justice Amy Coney Barrett had "made a mistake" and that the administration would seek to address the issue. Vance declined to speculate on reports of a possible retirement by Justice Samuel Alito, saying such a decision rests solely with the justice.

The Doha talks come after recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities ordered by President Trump amid heightened tensions in the Gulf. Qatar continues to play a central mediating role as both sides pursue diplomacy aimed at reducing regional tensions, safeguarding maritime security and preventing further escalation over Iran's nuclear programme.

With inputs from IANS