Iran US nuclear negotiations continue as the United States and Iran prepare for a fifth round in Rome on Friday. The key issue remained uranium enrichment.
Enrichment Dispute Deepens
President Donald Trump’s administration has insisted Iran must halt all enrichment activities. Iranian officials, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, rejected that condition.
“No enrichment means no deal,” Araghchi posted on X. He urged negotiators to act quickly.
U.S. diplomats Steve Witkoff and Michael Anton returned to the talks. The meetings are believed to be hosted again at the Omani Embassy in Rome. Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr al-Busaidi, is acting as the mediator.
U.S. Demands and Iran’s Red Line
The U.S. seeks full cessation of enrichment. At earlier stages, low-level enrichment was considered. That position has since hardened.
Tammy Bruce, a State Department spokesperson, said Washington’s stance was clear. “We believe we are going to succeed,” she said.
Iran, however, has demanded enrichment continue within its borders. Tehran rejected foreign enrichment or uranium swap deals, recalling failed proposals from 2010.
Tensions with Israel Increase Pressure
Israel has warned it may take military action against Iranian nuclear sites. Iran has responded with threats of “special measures” to protect its facilities.
A human chain of students was formed at the underground Fordo enrichment site. They built that site into a mountain to resist airstrikes.
Domestic Strain on Iran Mounts
Iran’s economy remains in crisis. Inflation and sanctions continue to weaken its currency, the rial. Talks have slightly helped stabilize the rate, but unrest looms.
The hijab law faces public defiance. Fuel subsidy rumors threaten new protests. Iran’s regional influence has also diminished following the fall of key allies.
Sanctions Escalate Amid Explosions
This week, the U.S. announced more sanctions. The U.S. banned sales of sodium perchlorate to Iran. Reports linked the chemical to a deadly explosion at Shahid Rajaei port in April.
That blast killed dozens and injured over 1,000 people. The incident occurred during the last round of negotiations.
Source: AP News
