Iran Proposes Modified Nuclear Deal, Reiterating Refusal to Dismantle Facilities

In a significant development in nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States, Tehranhas rejected Washington’s demand for a 20-year suspension of its uranium enrichment program while offering a compromise on enrichment moratorium and proposing alternative solutions for the transfer of its highly enriched uranium.

According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Iran’s proposed deal includes a shorter enrichment moratorium that would last for several months rather than the 20-year suspension requested by the United States. In addition, Iran has suggested diluting some of its highly enriched uranium to reduce its capacity for nuclear weapons development. However, Tehran has refused to dismantle its nuclear facilities, a key condition set by Washington.

The proposed compromise marks a shift in Iran’s stance on the enrichment issue, which has been a major point of contention in the negotiations. While the Iranian proposal does not fully meet Washington’s demands, it offers a more flexible approach than previous Iranian positions, indicating a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

In a separate move, Iran has called for an immediate end to the fighting in the region and a gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. The reopening of the strait would be coordinated with the lifting of the United States’ blockade on the area, effectively restoring normal trade flows.

The proposed deal also includes a conditional transfer arrangement for Iran’s highly enriched uranium, with the option to return it to Iran if negotiations fail. This offer appears aimed at addressing concerns about Iran’s nuclear capabilities while providing a safeguard for Tehran in case the talks collapse.

The Wall Street Journal noted that the Iranian proposal is conditioned on a 30-day time frame for nuclear issues to be negotiated, following which the parties would assess the situation and decide on the next steps. This deadline, while ambitious, suggests that Iran is prepared to engage in a rapid and comprehensive negotiation process.

The proposed deal marks a significant development in Iran-US nuclear talks and highlights the complexities and nuances of the ongoing negotiations. While the United States has expressed concern about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Tehran’s proposal demonstrates a willingness to compromise and engage in constructive dialogue, raising hopes for a potential breakthrough in the talks.