US, Iran zero in on four nuclear issues in talks amid escalating tensions

U.S. and Iranian officials have advanced negotiations on four core nuclear issues, focusing on a potential agreement that could halt Iran’s nuclear program for 15 years. The talks, led by U.S. officials and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, aim to address uranium enrichment, stockpile reduction, and dismantling of key nuclear sites—Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan—though hardliners like the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps remain a hurdle. The U.S. has proposed a 15-year suspension of uranium enrichment, a compromise between its initial demand of 20 years and Iran’s offer of 10 years. President Trump previously suggested accepting a 20-year ban but has not confirmed whether he would approve 15 years. The U.S. also seeks to dilute Iran’s existing stockpile of enriched uranium, including the 11 tons currently held, though Iran insists on keeping some material under its control rather than shipping it abroad. Dismantling Iran’s nuclear sites is another key demand, following U.S. airstrikes last year that damaged Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan. While Iran has discussed shutting down two facilities, it insists on retaining one site to assert its right to enrich uranium. The U.S. argues leaving any facility operational risks revival of near-bomb-grade fuel production, as seen at Fordo under the Obama-era deal. Recent tensions, including Iran shooting down a U.S. helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz and Trump’s vow of retaliation, threaten to disrupt talks. U.S. officials hope to finalize details in Switzerland this summer, but progress depends on overcoming domestic resistance in both countries. The negotiations remain fragile, with the outcome hinging on whether hardliners in Tehran or Washington can be persuaded to accept compromises.