US–Iran talks

WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: Negotiations between the United States and Iran are underway on a three-page framework aimed at ending the conflict, with a key proposal involving the release of frozen Iranian funds in exchange for nuclear concessions.

According to Axios, one of the central proposals under discussion suggests that the U.S. could release up to 20 billion dollars of Iran’s frozen assets if Tehran agrees to give up its stockpile of enriched uranium.

The report states that a major priority for Washington is to prevent Iran from accessing nearly 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium stored in underground nuclear facilities, including around 450 kilograms enriched up to 60 percent.

Sources said that earlier in the talks, the U.S. had shown willingness to release 6 billion dollars to allow Iran to purchase food, medicine, and essential goods, while Iran had demanded up to 27 billion dollars. The latest discussions are reportedly centered around a compromise figure of 20 billion dollars.

A U.S. official described the proposal as part of ongoing negotiations, while another termed the “money-for-uranium” idea as just one of several options on the table.

During the talks, the U.S. has also called for Iran to transfer its nuclear material out of the country, whereas Tehran has agreed only to “downblend” the uranium within its own territory. Another option under consideration is transferring highly enriched uranium to a third country while reducing the rest under international supervision inside Iran.

The draft memorandum also includes a proposed voluntary restriction on Iran’s uranium enrichment. While the U.S. has reportedly pushed for a 20-year ban, Iran has suggested a five-year limit, with mediators working to bridge the gap.

Under the proposed framework, Iran would be allowed to maintain nuclear research reactors for medical purposes, but would commit to keeping all facilities above ground, with existing underground sites rendered inactive.

The Strait of Hormuz is also part of the discussions, though significant differences remain unresolved. It is unclear whether the agreement will address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for allied groups in the region.