Iran has put forth a proposal for a joint nuclear enrichment initiative involving regional Arab nations and American investments, positioning it as an alternative to Washington’s demand for the dismantling of its nuclear program. This initiative was presented by Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during discussions with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Oman.
Several Iranian media outlets reported on the proposal, describing it as a significant addition to the ongoing negotiations. The newspaper Farhikhtegan, linked to the Revolutionary Guards Corps, prompted a debate about whether this proposal could be deemed a betrayal or a strategic offer. The U.S. State Department and National Security Council did not immediately respond to inquiries about the discussions.
The feasibility of such a regional nuclear venture, especially involving Iran alongside its rivals Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, remains uncertain. Diplomatic ties between Iran and the U.S. have been severed for 45 years, and private American enterprises might hesitate to invest in Iran’s nuclear projects. President Trump, while in Saudi Arabia, criticized Iran for supporting proxy militants in the region but reiterated his desire for a diplomatic resolution. “If I can make a deal with Iran, I’ll be very happy,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency for Iranian leaders to make a decision before facing more economic sanctions.
Iran’s proposal entails forming a nuclear consortium where Iran would enrich uranium to a low grade suitable for civilian use and send it to neighboring Arab countries. This plan bears similarities to the 2015 nuclear agreement but differentiates itself by involving representatives from other nations, potentially including U.S. oversight. Unlike the expired 2015 deal, which lasted 15 years, this new venture intends to be a permanent framework, potentially offering Trump a chance to showcase greater achievements compared to Obama’s administration.
Ali Vaez, the Iran director of the International Crisis Group, commented that while the idea is novel, it represents a necessary evolution in negotiations. He noted that both sides need to abandon rigid demands to negotiate effectively. Prior to the talks in Oman, both Iranian and American officials seemed to be heading toward a stalemate, raising fears of military conflict. However, mutual desires for a diplomatic solution persist.
In an interview, Witkoff emphasized that the U.S. seeks full dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program, demanding no enrichment and the closure of critical facilities. Iranian officials, however, have reiterated that ceasing their nuclear ambitions would be a red line, with Araghchi highlighting the nation’s historical sacrifices for its nuclear program.
Following the three-hour meeting in Oman, both parties emerged with optimistic outlooks, characterizing discussions as productive. Future talks will advance to expert teams focusing on technical details and sanctions relief.
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi noted the value of the discussions, highlighting innovative ideas and a mutual desire for an honorable resolution. Araghchi’s trip to Saudi Arabia before meeting Witkoff, along with subsequent travels to the UAE, indicated broad regional engagement. However, it remains unclear whether these Gulf states are willing to partner with Iran in a nuclear venture. Both countries aim for a resolution to avoid conflict while nurturing their own civilian nuclear aspirations.
Seyed Hossein Mousavian, a former Iranian diplomat, initially suggested the regional nuclear consortium concept. He argued that such a proposal could alleviate U.S. concerns by lowering Iran’s nuclear capacity, potentially providing a diplomatic victory for the Trump administration while curbing regional enrichment ambitions.
Original Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/13/world/middleeast/iran-us-nuclear-talks.html
Category : Iran,Nuclear Energy,United States International Relations,Araghchi, Abbas,Witkoff, Steven,Saudi Arabia,United Arab Emirates,United States
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Publish Date: 2025-05-14 10:49:00
