Iran has signalled it is ready to make concessions on its nuclear programme in talks with the US in return for the lifting of sanctions and recognition of its right to enrich uranium to avert a potential US attack
A senior Iranian official told Reuters that following two rounds of talks, both countries remain sharply divided over the scope and sequencing of relief from crippling US sanctions.
The report added that for the first time Iran is offering fresh concessions since their talks ended last week, when the sides appeared far apart and heading closer to military conflict. Analysts, report suggested, say the move suggests Tehran is trying to keep diplomacy alive and stave off a major U.S. strike.
Tehran would seriously consider a combination of sending half of its most highly enriched uranium abroad, diluting the rest and taking part in creating a regional enrichment consortium – an idea periodically raised in years of Iran-linked diplomacy, the official said.
The official added that Iran is willing to do this in return for US recognition of Iran’s right to “peaceful nuclear enrichment” under a deal that would also include lifting economic sanctions.
Additionally, Iran has also offered openings for US companies to participate as contractors in Iran’s large oil and gas industries, the official added, in negotiations to resolve decades of dispute over Tehran’s nuclear activities.
“Within the economic package under negotiation, the United States has also been offered opportunities for serious investment and tangible economic interests in Iran’s oil industry,” the official said.
The White House did not respond immediately to queries on the issue.
The US views enrichment inside Iran as a potential pathway to nuclear weapons. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and wants its right to enrich uranium to be recognised.
Earlier this month, Iran and the United States resumed negotiations as the U.S. builds up its military capability in the Middle East. Iran has threatened to strike U.S. bases in the region if it is attacked.
As negotiations continue, the Iranian official said the most recent discussions underscored the gap between the two sides, but stressed that “the possibility of reaching an interim agreement exists.”
Restrictions on Tehran’s long-range ballistic missiles and an end to its support for regional proxy groups are among US demands.
Rejecting any discussion on its missiles, sources told Reuters, without elaborating, that “the issue of regional proxies is not a red line for Tehran.”
Iranian authorities have said that a diplomatic solution would provide economic benefits for both Tehran and Washington.
The Iranian official said Tehran would not hand over control of its oil and mineral resources. “Ultimately, the U.S. can be an economic partner for Iran, nothing more. American companies can always participate as contractors in Iran’s oil and gas fields.”
