According to two U.S. officials and two additional sources briefed on the talks, Axios’ Barak Ravid reports that the US and Iran are negotiating over a three-page plan to end the war.
The three-page memorandum of understanding (MOU) the two sides are negotiating over also includes a “voluntary” moratorium on nuclear enrichment by Iran.
The U.S. demanded in the last round of talks that Iran agree to a 20-year moratorium. Iran countered with five years. The mediators are still trying to close the gap.
As part of the MOU, Iran would be allowed to have nuclear research reactors for the production of medical isotopes, but would pledge that all of its nuclear facilities would be above ground.
The existing underground facilities would remain out of commission.
Perhaps the most notable element under discussion being that the U.S. would release $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in return for Iran giving up its stockpile of enriched uranium.
Axios adds that a top priority for the Trump admin is ensuring Iran can’t access the stockpile of nearly 2,000kg of enriched uranium buried in its underground nuclear facilities, in particular the 450kg enriched to 60% purity.
The Iranians, meanwhile, need money.
The parties are negotiating over what will happen to the stockpile, and how much of Iran’s assets will be unfrozen. They are also discussing the terms on which Iran could use that money.
WTI Crude front-month oil futures prices are tumbling on the report, down over 8% – back near post-ceasefire lows…
President Trump said Thursday that U.S. and Iranian negotiators would likely meet this weekend for a second round of talks to try to seal the deal.
Developing…
