President Donald Trump is expecting a response from Iran on a proposed peace deal following recent U.S. defensive strikes. The situation comes at a time of heightened tension between Washington and Tehran, with diplomatic engagement still uncertain. U.S. officials believe Iran may eventually respond, but there is no clarity on when or whether a meaningful reply will be issued.
In an interview aired by Fox News, former CENTCOM spokesman Colonel Joe Buccino (Retired) explained the difficulties involved in negotiating with Iran. He pointed to the country’s fragmented leadership structure and what he described as deliberate delay tactics that make progress harder to achieve in diplomatic talks.
Buccino said, “We’re not sure which of the mullahs are alive. The Ayatollah is underground and is only communicating through passing notes.”
He stressed that Iran’s internal political complexity creates uncertainty for external negotiators, as it is often unclear who holds final decision-making authority. According to him, this lack of clarity can slow down discussions and complicate efforts to reach any agreement.
He further suggested that different factions within Iran may act independently while still presenting a unified position outwardly, adding another layer of difficulty for U.S. policymakers trying to assess the situation. Analysts note that such dynamics often prolong negotiations and reduce trust between both sides.
As the situation develops, Washington continues to monitor Iran’s response closely, weighing both diplomatic and security options. The broader outlook remains uncertain, with progress dependent on internal coordination within Iran’s leadership and sustained diplomatic communication between both countries.
Watch the video below from 1:38 to 1:47
