The United States has proposed an interim nuclear agreement with Iran that would permit limited uranium enrichment for civilian purposes. This marks a significant shift from the Trump administration’s prior position, which demanded a complete halt to all enrichment activities in Iran.
Key Points of the Proposal:
– Iran would be allowed to enrich uranium up to 3% purity—suitable for nuclear power but far from weapons-grade.
– Enrichment must take place only at above-ground facilities with international supervision.
– Iran must halt underground enrichment operations.
– A stringent verification and inspection regime would be implemented in cooperation with the IAEA.
– In return, Iran would receive phased sanctions relief.
Despite the offer, President Trump has publicly insisted that any new agreement must eliminate all uranium enrichment by Iran. This has caused confusion about the administration’s true stance.
Iran is reportedly leaning toward rejecting the proposal, citing the demand to halt domestic enrichment and the lack of clarity on sanction relief. Officials are expected to issue a negative response without fully breaking off negotiations.
The U.S. also introduced the idea of a regional enrichment consortium involving countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, allowing Iran to access nuclear fuel abroad. Negotiations are ongoing amid high geopolitical stakes.
