The divide is less about whether talks have advanced than about the terms still blocking a conclusion. Baghaei said Washington had repeatedly shifted its position and had recently attempted to impose unreasonable demands.
That leaves both sides with room to claim progress while maintaining political pressure. Trump’s timeline points to urgency and momentum; Iran’s response stresses sovereignty and resistance. Until the remaining language is agreed, the prospect of a rapid deal remains uncertain.
The diplomatic dispute is unfolding against a worsening regional backdrop. Fresh Israeli strikes were reported in southern Lebanon, with smoke visible across the area after earlier air and drone attacks targeting Hezbollah.
Those earlier strikes reportedly killed at least 16 people and wounded dozens more. Hezbollah had entered the wider confrontation after firing rockets at Israel in solidarity with Iran, prompting a major Israeli air and ground campaign.
The United Nations has called for diplomacy that respects Lebanon’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and internationally recognised borders. Yet renewed attacks make that objective harder to achieve.
Away from the crisis, Indigenous musician Gurrumul was inducted posthumously into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame as a solo artist. He had already received recognition as a member of Yothu Yindi, making the honour a rare second induction.
The immediate test is whether negotiators can close the gap over final terms while regional tensions continue to rise. The next few days may reveal whether the suggested timetable reflects genuine momentum-or simply another round of public positioning.