U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance has said Iran must make a “meaningful” reduction in its nuclear enrichment capacity as part of any agreement to end the ongoing war between Washington and Tehran.

In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Vance said the United States was seeking concrete action from Iran rather than assurances that it would reduce its nuclear activities in the future. He questioned why Tehran would need uranium enriched to 60 percent if it does not intend to develop a nuclear weapon.

“I think if they want to show a commitment to not building a nuclear weapon, they would do something meaningful on their enrichment capacity,” Vance said.

The comments come as the United States and Iran have exchanged proposals aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy shipments. Vance said Washington remained open to an agreement but would require tangible Iranian nuclear concessions.

Iran, however, has indicated that recognition of its right to nuclear enrichment remains a red line. A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Washington’s demands are at odds with Tehran’s position, although details concerning enrichment could potentially be discussed. Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons.

Vance also said Washington remains uncertain about who has ultimate authority over major decisions in Tehran. He said the United States has been communicating with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi but questioned how much authority they have within Iran’s political structure.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei rejected the suggestion that Tehran’s decision-making structure is unclear, saying the problem instead lies in what he described as contradictory messages from U.S. officials.

The conflict has also affected global energy markets, with uncertainty surrounding shipping through the Strait of Hormuz adding pressure to oil supplies and prices. Reuters reported that Washington and Tehran remain far apart on key conditions for ending the war.