In a bid to prevent nuclear weaponry, the US has sent a proposal to Iran through diplomatic channels amidst growing tensions.
**US Proposes New Nuclear Deal to Iran Amid Rising Enrichment Concerns**
**US Proposes New Nuclear Deal to Iran Amid Rising Enrichment Concerns**
The latest move in nuclear negotiations comes after Iran escalates uranium enrichment levels, raising fears of weapons production.
The United States has made a significant move in diplomatic talks by sending a new proposal for a nuclear deal to Iran, according to a confirmation from the White House on Saturday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi disclosed that the proposal was presented to him by his Omani counterpart, Badr Albusaidi, during a brief visit to Tehran. This development comes on the heels of a critical report from the UN's nuclear watchdog, indicating that Iran has raised its production of enriched uranium, which is crucial in the creation of nuclear armaments.
In a statement, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that accepting the US offer would be in Iran's best interest, reiterating that former President Trump's position maintains that Iran should never acquire a nuclear bomb. The proposal, described as "detailed and acceptable," was conveyed to Iran by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Araghchi responded on social media, affirming that Iran's response would be governed by its principles and national interests.
While the specific terms of the proposal remain undisclosed, it follows an alarming report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which revealed that Iran now holds more than 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity. This level is perilously close to the 90% purity required for weapons-grade material, enabling Iran to potentially develop about ten nuclear weapons if it chooses to refine the uranium further. This situation has raised red flags for the US, Britain, France, and Germany, who may soon push for the IAEA to declare Iran in violation of its non-proliferation commitments.
Despite the escalating tensions, Iran maintains that its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes. On Saturday, state-run media described the IAEA's findings as politically charged with unfounded claims. Tehran has also warned that it will take "appropriate measures" in response to any punitive actions contemplated by the IAEA.
For years, the US has sought to curtail Iran's nuclear development. Since talks mediated by Oman began in April, both countries have expressed a cautious optimism concerning negotiations, although they still differ significantly on whether enrichment activities should continue in any future agreement. The IAEA's recent report indicates that Iran has continued its rapid uranium enrichment at an alarming rate, producing enough highly enriched uranium to create one nuclear weapon per month over the last quarter.
US officials caution that if Iran decides to pursue weapons development, it could achieve a weapons-grade material status in under two weeks and build a nuclear bomb within months. While Iran officially denies any intentions to develop nuclear weapons, the IAEA has been unable to verify its claims due to restricted access to its facilities and lack of clarity surrounding its nuclear history.
Former President Trump had withdrawn the US from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, which sought to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanction relief. He labeled the agreement a "bad deal" due to its temporary measures and failure to address Iran's missile program. Subsequently, he reimposed sanctions designed to exert maximum pressure on Tehran for renewed negotiations for a more extensive agreement. Over recent years, Iran has systematically breached the restrictions of the JCPOA, escalating concerns over its nuclear ambitions.
In a statement, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that accepting the US offer would be in Iran's best interest, reiterating that former President Trump's position maintains that Iran should never acquire a nuclear bomb. The proposal, described as "detailed and acceptable," was conveyed to Iran by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Araghchi responded on social media, affirming that Iran's response would be governed by its principles and national interests.
While the specific terms of the proposal remain undisclosed, it follows an alarming report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which revealed that Iran now holds more than 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity. This level is perilously close to the 90% purity required for weapons-grade material, enabling Iran to potentially develop about ten nuclear weapons if it chooses to refine the uranium further. This situation has raised red flags for the US, Britain, France, and Germany, who may soon push for the IAEA to declare Iran in violation of its non-proliferation commitments.
Despite the escalating tensions, Iran maintains that its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes. On Saturday, state-run media described the IAEA's findings as politically charged with unfounded claims. Tehran has also warned that it will take "appropriate measures" in response to any punitive actions contemplated by the IAEA.
For years, the US has sought to curtail Iran's nuclear development. Since talks mediated by Oman began in April, both countries have expressed a cautious optimism concerning negotiations, although they still differ significantly on whether enrichment activities should continue in any future agreement. The IAEA's recent report indicates that Iran has continued its rapid uranium enrichment at an alarming rate, producing enough highly enriched uranium to create one nuclear weapon per month over the last quarter.
US officials caution that if Iran decides to pursue weapons development, it could achieve a weapons-grade material status in under two weeks and build a nuclear bomb within months. While Iran officially denies any intentions to develop nuclear weapons, the IAEA has been unable to verify its claims due to restricted access to its facilities and lack of clarity surrounding its nuclear history.
Former President Trump had withdrawn the US from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, which sought to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanction relief. He labeled the agreement a "bad deal" due to its temporary measures and failure to address Iran's missile program. Subsequently, he reimposed sanctions designed to exert maximum pressure on Tehran for renewed negotiations for a more extensive agreement. Over recent years, Iran has systematically breached the restrictions of the JCPOA, escalating concerns over its nuclear ambitions.
