Trump administration proposes nuclear deal to Iran amid rising tensions

On May 31, 2025, the United States confirmed the sending of a nuclear proposal to Iran, amidst ongoing negotiations over Iran's nuclear program. This development comes shortly after the International Atomic Energy Agency released a report highlighting a significant increase in Iran's stockpile of near-bomb-grade uranium, which raised concerns internationally. The proposal, characterized as detailed and acceptable by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, was crafted by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. It outlines expectations for Iran to cease all uranium enrichment and hints at a regional initiative involving Iran and neighboring states for nuclear power production. The negotiations mark a pivotal moment, as they represent the first formal proposal in the recent talks that started in April 2025, following the Trump administration’s withdrawal from the previous Iran nuclear deal in 2018. The inability of both sides to reach a consensus on key issues, such as Iran's enrichment capacity, remains a point of contention. Despite the proposal’s release, it appears to lack provisions aimed at curtailing Iran's support for terrorism or its ballistic missile program, which were concerns raised during previous negotiations. Furthermore, the recent IAEA report indicated that Iran's enriched uranium stock could yield sufficient material for nine nuclear weapons, should it continue to enrich above 90%. However, the report also noted that Iran publicly ceased its pursuit of nuclear weapons ambitions in 2003 and that U.S. intelligence has suggested no evidence of an ongoing, undeclared nuclear weapons program. The tensions surrounding these developments underscore the complexities of the negotiations, with delays potentially threatening regional stability. In light of the rapid developments, Iranian officials have signaled they are considering the proposal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged the U.S. proposal had been conveyed through a mediator, emphasizing the importance of national interest and rights for the Iranian people in the response to these suggestions. As negotiations advance, the success of the proposal hinges not only on the details within it but also on the geopolitical dynamics at play, especially considering the historical backdrop of the U.S.'s previous dealings with Iran over its nuclear program.