Iran Signals Progress in US Talks as Report Claims Agreement to Give Up Enriched Uranium

24/05/2026

Iran Signals Progress in US Talks as Report Claims Agreement to Give Up Enriched Uranium

Washington / Tehran, May 24: Iran and the United States are reportedly moving closer to a broad framework agreement aimed at de-escalating tensions, ending hostilities, and laying the groundwork for a potential long-term settlement, according to statements from Iranian officials and multiple media reports, including the New York Times and Fars News.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said on Saturday that both sides have “moved closer” to finalizing a memorandum of understanding after weeks of indirect talks reportedly mediated by Pakistan. He said the emerging draft framework focuses on ending hostilities, addressing maritime security concerns, and discussing the release of frozen Iranian assets, while leaving nuclear and sanctions issues for later phases of negotiation.

Baghaei added that under the proposed timeline, both sides would enter detailed negotiations within 30 to 60 days to work toward a final comprehensive agreement.

Separately, the New York Times reported that U.S. officials said Iran has agreed in principle to surrender its stockpile of highly enriched uranium as part of a broader framework announced under former President Donald Trump. According to the report, the proposal still leaves key technical details unresolved, including how and where the uranium would be transferred or diluted, with those matters expected to be addressed in subsequent negotiations.

The report further noted that Iran had initially resisted including its uranium stockpile in the early phase of the agreement, but U.S. negotiators reportedly warned that talks could collapse and military escalation could resume if no commitment was reached. Intelligence estimates cited in the report suggest Iran possesses around 970 pounds of uranium enriched up to 60 percent.

The White House has not officially commented on the reported details of the proposal.

Meanwhile, U.S. political reactions have emerged, with Republican Representative Randy Fine stating on the social media platform X that he has been in contact with the White House regarding the potential agreement. He expressed confidence that Donald Trump would “land this deal and end the conflict on his terms,” while asserting that Iran would never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.

On the Iranian side, Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi reiterated Tehran’s position of what he called a “peace through strength” approach, emphasizing diplomacy alongside firm defense of Iran’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

The discussions remain ongoing, with both sides reportedly converging on a phased roadmap that could shape future negotiations on nuclear restrictions, sanctions relief, and regional security arrangements.