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.