NYT: US, Iran discussing 15-year uranium enrichment ban

The United States and Iran are discussing a potential 15-year ban on uranium enrichment as part of negotiations on a new nuclear agreement, according to a report by The New York Times citing sources familiar with the talks.

Washington and Tehran have in recent weeks been discussing four key elements of a possible deal: a long-term suspension of uranium enrichment, the dilution of Iran’s existing uranium stockpiles, the dismantling of certain nuclear facilities, and Tehran’s acceptance of unannounced inspections.

The White House believes these measures could effectively halt Iran’s nuclear program for approximately 15 years. Sources cited by the newspaper noted that the parties are currently discussing only the preliminary framework of a potential agreement. 

It remains unclear whether the latest developments will derail the talks, including President Trump’s statement on June 9 that Iran had shot down a US helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz and that Washington would be forced to respond.

By Jeyhun Aghazada