US officials express significant uncertainty over who truly governs Iran. An official speaking to Axios stated that Washington is not sure who holds control in Iran and that the Iranian side is also unclear on the matter. Officials reported that the US cannot be certain whether its negotiating counterparts have full authority, and that there is a serious split between various political and military groups in Iran. This situation occurs at a critical juncture in US-Iran relations and is important for regional stability.
In particular, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps does not approve the decisions of the negotiating team and does not allow them to speak on its behalf. Meanwhile, an Iranian delegation will reportedly travel to Pakistan for talks with the US. US President Donald Trump stated that the deal to be made with Iran will be much better than the 2015 nuclear deal and that the Strait of Hormuz will remain blockaded. Trump also said that extending the current ceasefire is unlikely.