Key Points
- • Tehran seeks recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment
- • US concerned over enrichment and highly enriched uranium stockpile
- • Potential economic cooperation in Iran’s oil sector discussed
ISLAMABAD: Iran and the United States hold differing views over sanctions relief amid ongoing negotiations regarding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, according to a senior Iranian official who spoke exclusively to Reuters.
New talks are planned for early March as tensions in the Middle East remain high, and both sides are adamant about their demands.
Divergent positions
The official highlighted that “the last round of talks showed that U.S. ideas regarding the scope and mechanism of sanctions relief differ from Iran’s demands.
Both sides need to reach a logical timetable for lifting sanctions. This roadmap must be reasonable and based on mutual interests.”
Iran has rejected US calls for zero uranium enrichment but signalled readiness to compromise on its nuclear program.
Washington views enrichment as a potential pathway to nuclear weapons, while Iran maintains its nuclear program is strictly peaceful.
Nuclear stockpile and enrichment options
Iran is reportedly considering measures including partial export of its highly enriched uranium, dilution of its highest-purity stock, and the potential creation of a regional enrichment consortium in exchange for recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment.
The UN nuclear agency estimates Iran’s stockpile at more than 440 kg of uranium enriched up to 60 per cent, below weapons-grade levels.
Economic Incentives
The Iranian official noted that diplomatic progress could yield mutual economic benefits.
“Within the economic package under negotiation, the United States has also been offered opportunities for serious investment and tangible economic interests in Iran’s oil industry,” the official said.
However, Tehran emphasised that control over its oil and mineral resources would remain under Iranian authority, with US companies acting as contractors rather than owners.
Outlook
Officials indicated that negotiations continue and an interim agreement remains possible if both parties agree on a mutually acceptable roadmap.
While Iran asserts its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment, Washington maintains pressure on Iran to reduce enrichment levels and manage its uranium stockpile, highlighting the delicate balance in the ongoing dialogue.
