[U.S. Considers "20 Billion Dollars for Iran's Uranium Enrichment"]
According to Wired, the United States is recently reviving a proposal involving the transfer of high-enriched uranium from Iran, specifically offering "cash" and sanctions relief in exchange for Iran's high-enriched uranium.
It is reported that this "cash" amount is approximately $20 billion. However, Trump won't be paying this money himself, nor will Arab countries; instead, it mainly comes from Iranian assets previously frozen by the U.S., including past oil sale proceeds. In essence, the Trump administration would be using Iran's own money to buy Iran's high-enriched uranium. If viewed independently, regardless of the angle, Trump stands to gain without any loss.
Wired states: Initially, during negotiations in Islamabad, Vance, Witkoff, and Kushner, with Trump's approval, attempted to push this framework upon Iran—specifically, Iran would hand over all its high-enriched uranium to the U.S. and agree to suspend uranium enrichment activities for 12 to 15 years. In return, the Trump administration would initiate unfreezing funds and reduce external sanctions on Iran.
However, Trump later changed his mind, fearing that Iran would strengthen its military capabilities after receiving substantial funds. Additionally, releasing frozen assets would bring political complications for him.
Nevertheless, U.S. negotiators are pushing Trump to reconsider reviving this proposal. Even if he agrees, it remains unclear whether Iran would accept. After enduring dozens of airstrikes, Iran urgently needs funds for post-war reconstruction. Trump’s new framework indeed holds appeal. Yet, handing over enriched uranium to the U.S. is a sensitive issue domestically in Iran, facing considerable resistance.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1864536411168905/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.