The New York Times reported that Iran was willing to suspend uranium enrichment activities for up to five years. However, the Trump administration rejected this, insisting on a 20-year period – a term Washington considers crucial for ending the conflict.
Iran immediately retaliated, only accepting a "single-digit" timeframe (less than 10 years). This disagreement quickly became the biggest sticking point, preventing the two sides from reaching an agreement.
The core of the dispute revolves around Tehran's nuclear program, particularly whether Iran will agree to completely abandon uranium enrichment and dispose of its existing stockpiles. This is XEM a "red line" that has repeatedly caused negotiations to break down.
Meanwhile, Washington also demanded that Iran remove all its highly enriched uranium from its territory. In response, Tehran proposed a solution – down-blending – under international supervision.
With the ceasefire deadline of April 21 fast approaching, mediators Pakistan, Egypt, and Türkiye are racing to bridge the gap and salvage a peace deal.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said reconciliation efforts are still being intensified, while Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty is expected to travel to Washington this week to continue diplomatic efforts.
Türkiye also joined the fray. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan noted that initial positions are often focused on "maximizing benefits," but expressed confidence that both sides still have the goodwill to find common ground in order to maintain a lasting ceasefire.
While negotiations were still ongoing, President Donald Trump unexpectedly announced a maritime blockade against Iran. This move further heightened tensions.
On April 13, Trump told reporters at the White House that Iran had initiated the call and expressed a desire to reach an agreement. However, the US president said he "didn't care" whether Iran returned to the negotiating table or not. The US will not accept any agreement that would allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons.
Notably, Iran claimed they were very close to a preliminary agreement on April 11, but were "disappointed" after Vice President JD Vance's press conference.
Sources: The New York Times, Axios
