Iran's new proposal: Multi-nation uranium enrichment plan with US involvement

Iran has proposed the creation of a consortium consisting of Middle Eastern countries to facilitate uranium enrichment with the involvement of American investments, according to a report by The New York Times, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The proposal, presented by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, took place during a meeting in Oman on May 11. This initiative is viewed by Tehran as an alternative to Washington’s demand for a complete cessation of Iran's nuclear program. 

Iran reportedly hopes to establish a framework for uranium enrichment in the region that involves not only Iranian resources but also the participation of key Middle Eastern nations, with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates mentioned as potential members of the consortium.

Under this plan, Iran would be permitted to enrich uranium to a level of 3.67% purity for peaceful purposes and to supply it to other Arab countries for use in civilian nuclear projects. An essential feature of the proposal is the inclusion of international oversight, with observers from various countries, including U.S. nuclear experts, present at Iran’s nuclear facilities. This aspect is designed to increase transparency and ensure that enrichment activities are limited to peaceful, non-military uses.

Unlike the 2015 nuclear deal, which imposed a time limit of 15 years on Iran’s nuclear activities, this new proposal would not be constrained by such a time frame, meaning it could potentially be indefinite. Iran views this as a more flexible and sustainable arrangement for regional cooperation on nuclear energy.

The meeting and the proposal were part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to address Iran's nuclear program. The fourth round of negotiations between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman, took place on May 11. Previous rounds were held in Muscat on April 12, Rome on April 19, and again in Muscat on April 26. Throughout the discussions, Araghchi has led the Iranian delegation, while Witkoff has represented the U.S.

By Tamilla Hasanova