Negotiations between the United States and Iran are proceeding with a new American proposal centered on a phased approach to Iran’s nuclear program, according to reports emerging from the region. The proposal, reportedly presented to Iranian officials, seeks a full cessation of uranium enrichment activities for a period of three to five years, followed by a limited resumption capped at 1.5% enrichment levels.
As part of the framework, the United States has requested Iran transfer approximately 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a move intended to reduce Tehran’s stockpile of highly enriched material. This request signals a focus on curbing Iran’s near-term capabilities, rather than dismantling its entire nuclear infrastructure.
However, the American offer, as currently outlined, does not include a reciprocal lifting of sanctions imposed on Iran. Instead, it proposes a commitment from the U.S. To refrain from military action against Iran during the duration of the agreement. This aspect of the proposal has reportedly been met with resistance from Iranian officials, indicating a significant sticking point in the ongoing discussions.
The proposed framework arrives at a particularly sensitive juncture. Regional tensions remain high following a violent crackdown on protests within Iran last month, prompting a significant U.S. Military buildup in the Arabian Sea, including the positioning of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) in the area. This deployment, coupled with President Donald Trump’s rhetoric, has raised concerns about a potential escalation of conflict.
The talks, facilitated by mediators from Qatar, Turkiye, and Egypt, are scheduled to take place in Oman, a shift from previously planned discussions in Turkiye. U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to lead their respective delegations. The change in venue underscores the delicate nature of the negotiations and the efforts to secure a neutral ground for dialogue.
This latest proposal builds upon a complex history of negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. The original 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which limited Iran’s enrichment activities in exchange for sanctions relief, was abandoned by the Trump administration in 2018. Since then, Iran has gradually rolled back its commitments under the JCPOA, increasing its enrichment levels and stockpiles of enriched uranium.
Under the terms of the 2015 agreement, Iran was permitted to enrich uranium to a purity of 3.67% and maintain a uranium stockpile of 300 kilograms. However, following the U.S. Withdrawal, Iran has exceeded these limits, raising concerns among international observers about its intentions.
Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but Western powers fear that it could be used to develop nuclear weapons. This concern is compounded by Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for regional proxies, which are viewed as destabilizing forces in the Middle East.
In May 2025, Iranian officials explicitly ruled out any suspension of uranium enrichment as a condition for a nuclear deal with the United States. Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmail Baghaei dismissed reports suggesting Iran could offer a three-year enrichment freeze as “totally false.” This public stance reflects domestic political considerations within Iran, where any perceived concession on the nuclear issue is likely to face strong opposition.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly asserted Iran’s willingness to walk away from negotiations if its core demands are not met, regardless of the economic consequences. This hardline rhetoric is intended to strengthen Iran’s negotiating position and signal its resolve to protect its nuclear program.
The current impasse highlights the deep distrust between Washington and Tehran. The U.S. Insists that Iran must verifiably dismantle its nuclear program and address concerns about its regional activities before any significant sanctions relief can be considered. Iran, demands a full restoration of the JCPOA and the lifting of all sanctions imposed by the U.S.
The proposed framework, while falling short of Iran’s demands, represents a potential pathway towards de-escalation and a resumption of dialogue. However, the success of the talks will depend on the willingness of both sides to compromise and address each other’s concerns. The limited timeframe for diplomacy, coupled with the heightened regional tensions, adds to the urgency of the situation.
The concept of a broader regional security architecture, potentially involving a “Middle East Nuclear Consortium,” has been proposed as a long-term solution to address the nuclear proliferation risks in the region. However, such a proposal faces significant political and technical challenges, and its feasibility remains uncertain.
The outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications for regional stability and global security. A failure to reach an agreement could lead to a further escalation of tensions, potentially triggering a military conflict with devastating consequences. A successful outcome, could pave the way for a more peaceful and secure Middle East.
