Talks between the United States and Iran over Tehran's nuclear programme have narrowed to four key elements before the latest flare-up in hostilities, according to The New York Times. US officials and diplomats briefed on the confidential negotiations revealed that the talks have progressed well beyond efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic waterway through which roughly 20% of the world's crude oil supplies pass. The strait has effectively been under an Iranian blockade since early March, imposed in retaliation for the US-Israeli strikes on February 28 that sparked the current Middle East conflict.
However, it remains unclear whether the latest escalation will set back the negotiations. The war has been on hold since April 8, and the truce was later extended indefinitely. Yet the ceasefire remains fragile, with periodic tensions and allegations of violations threatening to unravel the agreement.
Four Key Elements Under Negotiation
Here are the four key elements under negotiation in a potential nuclear agreement between the United States and Iran:
1. Lengthy Suspension of Uranium Enrichment
Washington has for months insisted that Iran halt uranium enrichment for at least 20 years. Tehran has countered with a proposal for a 10-year suspension, but the US believes the two sides could ultimately agree on a 15-year freeze.
2. Dilution of Enriched Uranium Stockpile
Under the reported proposal, the US would work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to dilute, or 'downblend', Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium. American officials envision a direct role in managing the nuclear material — a prospect Tehran has long rejected. The Iranians, meanwhile, maintain that the US would serve only as an observer in the process.
3. Dismantling of Key Nuclear Facilities
The United States has demanded that Iran dismantle its three main nuclear sites at Natanz, Fordo and Isfahan. All three facilities were targeted by US strikes during Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025. While Iran has reportedly discussed dismantling two of the sites, it insists on keeping one operational to demonstrate that it has not relinquished what it considers its 'right to enrich' uranium.
4. 'Snap' International Inspections
Washington wants inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to be granted the authority to conduct 'snap' inspections at any time and at any location in Iran. It remains unclear whether Tehran will accept such a provision. In practice, many suspected nuclear facilities are located within Revolutionary Guards military bases, where inspectors have often been denied access.
Catch all LIVE updates on the US-Iran conflict here.
