President Donald Trump has advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from striking Iran, citing ongoing nuclear talks between the US and Tehran. Trump stated that a strike “would be inappropriate to do right now because we’re very close to a solution”. The US and Iran have held five rounds of talks in Oman and Italy, mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, focusing on limiting Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions.
The negotiations aim to close a half-century of enmity between the two nations. According to Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, “the jury is still out” on the negotiations, but he views the talks as a positive sign, indicating a willingness to reach an agreement. Grossi added that this willingness “is something possible”.
Key Sticking Points in Nuclear Talks
US officials insist that any new deal must include a firm commitment from Iran to halt uranium enrichment, which they see as a potential pathway to building nuclear weapons. However, Iran denies seeking nuclear arms, stating its program is solely for civilian purposes. Tehran has rejected Washington’s demand to eliminate enrichment capabilities, deeming it an infringement on national sovereignty.
Iran has proposed that the US publicly recognize Tehran’s right to enrich uranium under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and approve the release of Iranian oil revenues frozen under US sanctions. Iranian officials suggest a “political understanding” could be reached soon if Washington accepts Tehran’s conditions, potentially leading to a broader nuclear accord.
Under this arrangement, Tehran would reportedly halt uranium enrichment for a year in exchange for the US releasing frozen Iranian funds and recognizing its right to refine uranium for civilian use.
Given the US stiff stance on disarmament, it is unclear whether the White House wuld accede the request of Tehran which potentially could benefit the US while leading to more arms race.