WASHINGTON : Speaking to university students in Hungary, Vance stressed that the United States remains open to reaching an agreement, but made it clear that any signs of dishonesty from Iran would carry consequences.
“If the Iranians are willing in good faith to work with us, I think we can make an agreement,” Vance said. “If they’re gonna lie, if they’re gonna cheat, they’re not gonna be happy.”
Vance revealed that US President Donald Trump has directed the negotiating team, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and special envoy Steve Witkoff, to approach the talks in good faith, while also maintaining strong leverage.
He underscored that Washington retains “military, diplomatic, and extraordinary economic leverage” should Iran fail to reciprocate during negotiations.
Adding to the tension, Vance noted internal divisions within Iran regarding the ceasefire. While some Iranian officials have signaled willingness to move forward, others, he claimed, have been “lying about the nature of the ceasefire” on social media.
Quoting President Trump, Vance added, “The Iranians are better negotiators than they are fighters,” suggesting that diplomacy remains the preferred path.
Addressing university students in Hungary, US Vice President JD Vance said Washington is ready for a good-faith deal with Iran but warned that cheating or lying would trigger consequences. He emphasized that President Trump has instructed his team to negotiate seriously while preserving strong military, diplomatic, and economic leverage to respond if Iran does not act honestly.