US, Iran Discuss New Nuclear Deal Based on 2015 Framework

The United States and Iran are engaged in negotiations to revive a nuclear agreement similar to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which was abandoned by the U.S. in 2018. The emerging deal would largely retain the structure of the original accord but introduce stricter conditions, such as extending the agreement's duration to 25 years, enhancing verification measures, and expanding sunset clauses. Under discussion are limits on Iran's uranium stockpile and centrifuge types, with the country required to dilute, export, or seal its 60% enriched uranium under unprecedented International Atomic Energy Agency scrutiny, in exchange for significant sanctions relief. While Israel, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu, pushes for a 'zero enrichment' policy, Iran insists its right to enrich uranium is non-negotiable, though it may agree to cap enrichment at 3.67%. The sudden U.S. pivot to negotiations surprised Israeli officials who had been seeking U.S. support for military action. Both sides remain at odds over issues such as Iran's ballistic missile program, but talks are ongoing, with a fourth round expected soon in Rome.