US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall on Uranium Enrichment Disagreements Between Trump and Araghchi
Published on 6.3.25
The ongoing nuclear talks between the United States and Iran have hit a roadblock, with disagreements over uranium enrichment at the forefront of the impasse. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has maintained that his country's nuclear program is transparent and peaceful, while US officials, including President Donald Trump, have expressed concerns about Iran enriching uranium at any level.
A proposal to create a regional consortium for civilian uranium enrichment has been put forward, echoing a plan studied over a decade ago. However, Iranian officials have shown skepticism towards this idea, with Araghchi warning that if the goal is to restrict Iran's peaceful activities, there will be no deal. The Trump administration has stated that it is in Iran's best interest to accept this proposal.
The International Atomic Energy Agency's chief, Rafael Grossi, has called for increased transparency from Iran following a leaked report showing an increase in uranium enrichment. This move has been met with resistance from Iranian officials, who argue that their program is peaceful and intended to generate power. US President Trump has also taken to social media to reiterate his stance on the issue, stating that the US will not allow uranium enrichment as part of a potential agreement with Iran.
The 2015 nuclear deal, which allowed for limits on uranium enrichment but permitted some capacity, is being cited as a model for concessions that could be made in a new agreement. However, it remains to be seen whether this proposal will be enough to break the current deadlock and move negotiations forward.