U.S. Proposes 20-Year Freeze on Iran's Uranium Enrichment, Talks Stalled
According to U.S. officials and informed sources cited by Axios, the United States proposed during talks in Islamabad a freeze on Iran's uranium enrichment activities for at least 20 years.
Iran countered with a proposal to shorten the freeze period to a single-digit number of years.
Reports indicate that the Iranian delegation had hoped to reach a preliminary agreement before Sunday, but viewed the hardline statements made by U.S. Vice President Vance during his press conference as a breach of previously reached consensus.
A source revealed, "The Iranian delegation was extremely angry after that press conference."
The U.S. also insists that Iran fully remove all highly enriched uranium from its territory—an demand rejected by Iran.
Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey continue mediating efforts, aiming to narrow the gap between both sides before the ceasefire expires on April 21.
In the meantime, Trump announced a blockade against Iran to exert pressure on negotiations. The White House stated that contact with Tehran is ongoing, “progressing toward an agreement.”
Additional reports suggest both sides are discussing extending the ceasefire by 45 to 60 days to allow further negotiations.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, “At a point just one step away from signing the Islamabad memorandum, we have encountered extreme demands, constant condition changes, and obstructive behavior from the U.S. side. We have engaged in good faith in talks with Washington and sent our highest-level delegation in 47 years.”
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862391482443776/
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