168: Despite the current tension, negotiations between the parties are further advanced

Artak Zakaryan writes: “According to The New York Times, before the latest escalation of the situation, Washington and Tehran had gone much further in the negotiations than was supposed.

Stopping uranium enrichment

The USA believes that Iran can agree to freeze uranium enrichment for 15 years. As for the fate of already enriched uranium reserves, according to the periodical, the option of their dilution is also being discussed. In that case, the Iranian authorities can declare that the material remains in the territory of the country, but its military significance will be significantly reduced.

Regarding nuclear facilities

Washington demands to dismantle Natanz, Fordo and Isfahan facilities. Tehran insists on keeping at least one facility as part of its right to develop nuclear technology.

It is reported that the US is ready to consider the option of keeping one surface facility under strict international control.

Full access to IAEA specialists

The American side demands unlimited inspections, including surprise visits. It is not yet known whether Iran will agree to this.

I believe that the mentioned conditions and negotiation issues are not complete, and the parties have other key issues to reach a final agreement. However, the discussed conditions are significantly stricter and more comprehensive than in 2015. Agreements during the administration of Barack Obama.

Today, one of the most sensitive issues, the unfreezing of Iran’s assets amounting to 25 billion dollars, has not yet been resolved.

Tehran demands access to these funds, while the US is ready to take that step only in case of phased and continuous implementation of future agreements.

So, despite current tensions, negotiations between the parties appear to be at a more advanced stage than previously thought.”

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