Negotiations between the United States and Iran are ongoing over a three-page draft framework aimed at ending the conflict, according to Axios.
The proposal reportedly includes a key provision under which the US would release up to $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Iran relinquishing its stockpile of enriched uranium.
According to the report, a major priority for the US administration is to prevent Iran from accessing around 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium stored in underground nuclear facilities, including approximately 450 kilograms enriched to 60 per cent.
Earlier in the talks, Washington had been prepared to release $6 billion to allow Iran to purchase food, medicine and other essential goods, while Tehran had sought $27 billion. Sources say the latest discussions are centred around a potential $20 billion figure. One US official described the proposal as part of the American offer, while another noted that the “money-for-uranium” idea is just one of several options under consideration.
The report adds that the US has called for Iran to transfer its nuclear material abroad, whereas Iran has agreed only to “downblend” it within the country. Another proposal under discussion involves transferring highly enriched uranium to a third country while reducing the remainder under international supervision inside Iran.
The draft memorandum also includes a voluntary restriction on uranium enrichment by Iran. The US had reportedly pushed for a 20-year limit, while Iran proposed a five-year period, with mediators continuing efforts to bridge the gap.
Under the framework, Iran would be allowed to maintain nuclear research reactors for medical purposes, while ensuring that all facilities remain above ground and that existing underground sites are rendered inactive.
The agreement is also said to cover issues related to the Strait of Hormuz, though significant differences remain. It is unclear whether the draft addresses Iran’s ballistic missile programme or its support for allied groups in the region.
