Atomic energy chief signals conditional offer as indirect talks with Washington continue
Iran has offered to downgrade its stockpile of highly enriched uranium if the United States eases sanctions, the country’s atomic energy chief said on Monday, marking a potential diplomatic opening amid heightened regional tensions.
Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), stated that Tehran is prepared to dilute its enriched uranium—a process that reduces its weapons-grade potential—in return for sanctions relief. He did not specify whether the offer required the removal of all U.S. sanctions or a partial rollback.
The proposal follows what both sides described as “positive and constructive” indirect talks in Oman last week, suggesting a cautious re-engagement between Tehran and Washington after months of escalating hostility. Prior to U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June of last year, Iran had been enriching uranium to 60% purity—far beyond the 3.67% limit set by the 2015 nuclear deal, and close to the 90% required for a nuclear weapon.
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iran is the only non-nuclear-armed state enriching uranium to this level. The whereabouts of more than 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium that was in Iran’s possession before last year’s conflict remains unknown, with UN inspectors last accounting for it on June 10. Experts say that amount could potentially yield material for several nuclear weapons if further enriched.
Despite the diplomatic signal, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei struck a defiant tone on Monday, urging Iranians to resist foreign pressure. “National power is less about missiles and aircraft and more about the will and resolve of the people,” Khamenei said in a televised address. “Show it again and frustrate the enemy.”
Nevertheless, the offer from Eslami indicates Tehran’s willingness to explore a negotiated de-escalation of its nuclear program to avoid further confrontation with the United States. Analysts caution that significant gaps remain, particularly regarding the scope of sanctions relief and verification mechanisms for uranium dilution.
The Biden administration has not yet publicly responded to the proposal. U.S. officials have repeatedly stated that all options remain on the table to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
United Arab Emirates Dirham Exchange Rate
