Trump Demands Written Nuclear Commitments from Iran for Peace Deal
New Demands from the US
President Donald Trump has issued a new request to Iran, seeking written assurances regarding critical elements of its nuclear program before progressing with a preliminary peace agreement, as reported by a major news outlet. This development follows verbal commitments from Iranian officials indicating their willingness to accept certain limitations on their nuclear activities. However, during a meeting in the White House Situation Room, Trump determined that these verbal assurances were insufficient.
Negotiations have been ongoing for weeks, focusing on a preliminary memorandum aimed at reducing tensions between the two nations, which would eventually facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and lay the groundwork for future discussions on nuclear matters.
Specific Nuclear Commitments Required
US Wants Specific Nuclear Pledges
During a session with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed the specific commitments the US expects from Tehran. He emphasized the need for Iran to engage in precise negotiations regarding the handling of highly enriched uranium, which remains concealed in a mountain. Rubio stated, "They must agree to significant and long-term restrictions or even the cancellation of enrichment activities within their borders."
Rubio noted that broader issues, such as potential economic incentives for Iran, could be discussed later. He explained, "For instance, they need to commit to disposing of the enriched uranium, and we must negotiate the mechanisms for this process."
Insights on the Draft Agreement
What We Know About the Draft Agreement
US officials have indicated that American and Iranian negotiators have recently reached an agreement on a draft framework that they believe could receive backing from both Trump and Iran's leadership. This draft reportedly includes a written assurance from Iran that it will not seek to develop nuclear weapons, a claim Iranian officials have made publicly on multiple occasions in recent years.
However, the draft lacks detailed commitments regarding Iran's broader nuclear program, which Tehran insists is solely for peaceful purposes. US officials have conveyed that Trump is hesitant to provide substantial financial concessions at this stage of negotiations. Rubio informed senators that the administration has not suggested lifting sanctions or unfreezing Iranian assets as part of the initial agreement, stating that such actions would only be considered after Iran meets its commitments to limit its nuclear activities.
On Monday, Trump expressed optimism that Iran would accept his terms within a few days. Nevertheless, US officials remain concerned about the internal divisions within Iran's leadership and whether the political system can reach a consensus on a final agreement. The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that the latest draft is still under review in Tehran. Rubio remarked, "Ultimately, you are negotiating with individuals who must also negotiate within their own system to determine what they can concede and agree to." He also mentioned the involvement of Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not been seen publicly since reportedly being injured in a strike that killed his father during the early stages of the conflict. Rubio noted that there are now signs that Khamenei is becoming more engaged in the negotiations.