Nuclear Talks Between US and Iran Hit Roadblock

A senior Iranian official has expressed skepticism about the latest nuclear talks (deal) proposal presented by the US, describing it as “incoherent and disjointed.” The official said the proposal is “very unrealistic” and contains “excessive demands.” This assessment contrasts with President Donald Trump’s public optimism about the progress of the talks, which he claimed were “very close to a solution” last week.

According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the momentum behind the talks appears to be collapsing. The US has shifted its position on uranium enrichment in the new proposal, suggesting it could invest in Iran’s civilian nuclear power program and join a consortium overseeing low-level uranium enrichment in Iran. This consortium would include Middle Eastern nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

However, this proposal is likely to face opposition from Iran hawks in the US and Israel. Iranian officials have insisted that they want to maintain control over their enrichment capabilities, and a senior official denounced the new proposal, saying it contradicts prior understandings. “The fact that the Americans constantly change their positions has so far been the main obstacle to the success of the talks and now makes the work more difficult than ever,” the official added.

Trump later clarified on social media that the potential agreement would not allow uranium enrichment, stating, “Under our potential Agreement — WE WILL NOT ALLOW ANY ENRICHMENT OF URANIUM.” The Iranian official reaffirmed Tehran’s stance on enrichment, saying, “Iran’s position on enrichment is firm and steadfast.”

The future of the talks is uncertain, and it is unclear whether the next round of negotiations will take place. The two sides had agreed to meet again after the fifth round of talks in Rome, but sources suggest that this may not happen.

The US-Iran nuclear talks are facing significant challenges due to disagreements over uranium enrichment, with Iran insisting on maintaining control over its enrichment capabilities and the US sending mixed messages on the issue. President Donald Trump’s administration has proposed a consortium overseeing low-level uranium enrichment in Iran, which would include Middle Eastern nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

However, Iranian officials have denounced this proposal, citing contradictions with prior understandings and expressing concerns over the constantly changing US positions. Trump’s later statement on social media that the potential agreement would not allow uranium enrichment further complicated the negotiations.