The United States has proposed a 20-year moratorium on Iran's uranium enrichment during high-stakes negotiations in Islamabad, according to sources familiar with the talks. Iran countered with a shorter 'single-digit' period, creating a significant impasse in efforts to resolve the nuclear standoff.
Sticking Points Remain
The primary disagreement revolves around Iran's uranium enrichment program, including demands to eliminate its existing stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The U.S. proposal also included additional restrictions aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear capabilities. Iran offered a 'monitored process of down-blending' its stockpile instead of full removal.
'The Iranians were pissed off about that press conference,' a source with knowledge of the negotiations stated, referring to Vice President Vance's abrupt announcement that no deal was near and that the U.S. delegation was leaving Islamabad.
Mediators Seek Common Ground
Pakistani, Egyptian, and Turkish mediators are now working to bridge the gap between the two sides before the ceasefire deadline on April 21. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized ongoing efforts to resolve differences, while Turkish Foreign Minister Haqan Fidan expressed cautious optimism, suggesting an extension of the ceasefire to allow further negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Vance informed him of the U.S. focus on removing enriched material from Iran and preventing enrichment 'in the coming years, and that could be in decades.'
Ceasefire Uncertain
With no agreement reached, tensions remain high. The U.S. has imposed a blockade on Iran to increase leverage, while Tehran evaluates the latest proposals. Mediators hope to avoid an 'all or nothing' scenario on enrichment, which could derail progress.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty is expected to visit Washington this week to meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.