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US-Iran Nuclear Talks Face Deadlock Over Uranium Enrichment Demands

As the US demands a complete halt to Iran's nuclear enrichment, Tehran insists its enrichment rights are non-negotiable, raising stakes ahead of renewed talks.

FILE - U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, left, meets with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif at United Nations headquarters, on Sept. 26, 2015. (AP Photo/Craig Ruttle, File)
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Overview

  • US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has called for Iran to stop and eliminate its nuclear enrichment program, marking a hardline shift in US demands.
  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed that uranium enrichment is a non-negotiable right, though Tehran is open to confidence-building measures.
  • The Trump administration's evolving stance, from limiting enrichment to demanding its cessation, has drawn criticism for inconsistent messaging.
  • Both sides are set to continue negotiations in Oman on April 19, with deep mutual distrust and heightened tensions complicating prospects for progress.
  • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports Iran’s uranium enrichment has reached 60%, far exceeding the 3.67% limit set by the 2015 nuclear deal, but still below weapons-grade levels.