U.S. official to Axios: We may consider allowing Iran symbolic uranium enrichment
TL;DR
The Trump administration may allow Iran symbolic uranium enrichment under strict conditions, including dismantling infrastructure and robust IAEA monitoring. However, any deal must permanently block nuclear weapon pathways, with sanctions relief contingent on Iran's commitment. Iran criticizes the offer as insufficient, while Israel and Republicans oppose any enrichment deal.
U.S. official to Axios: We may consider allowing Iran symbolic uranium enrichment
U.S. Official to Axios: We May Consider Allowing Iran Symbolic Uranium Enrichment
The Trump administration has signaled limited flexibility in its negotiations with Iran, according to Axios, which reported that U.S. officials are open to proposals allowing Iran to conduct “symbolic” uranium enrichment under strict conditions. This shift, however, remains contingent on ensuring Iran cannot develop a nuclear weapon and that its nuclear program is deemed “harmless” by U.S. and international standards according to reports.
The proposal, outlined by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner during recent talks in Geneva, includes requirements such as dismantling critical enrichment infrastructure, halting centrifuge research, and temporarily reducing enrichment levels to 3% for a negotiated period. Additionally, Iran’s underground enrichment facilities would need to become “non-operational” for an agreed-upon timeframe, while above-ground activities would be capped at levels necessary for civilian reactor fuel. A robust International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) monitoring system would also be mandated.
Despite this apparent openness, U.S. officials emphasized that any agreement must include binding mechanisms to permanently block pathways to a nuclear weapon. A senior administration official stated, “We will see what they present to us in writing. Based on that, we will see how serious they are.” The administration has also maintained that sanctions relief will only follow “demonstrated real commitment” from Iran according to the proposal.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry has criticized the U.S. offer as insufficient, citing unresolved concerns over sanctions relief timelines and guarantees. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Republican lawmakers continue to oppose any deal permitting even limited enrichment, advocating instead for stringent restrictions or military action.
The Trump administration has not ruled out military options, with a senior adviser noting the president could act “at any moment” depending on Iran’s response and regional developments according to reports. However, officials stress that a “politically marketable” deal remains a priority, provided it satisfies domestic and regional skeptics according to the administration.
A sixth round of talks is expected soon, with Iran reportedly preparing a counterproposal. The outcome will hinge on whether Tehran can present a plan that meets Washington’s exacting criteria while avoiding further escalation.
