The United States and Iran differ on the duration of enrichment suspension and the fate of uranium

The discussions between the United States and Iran regarding the Iranian nuclear program reached an agreement before failing due to persistent disagreements, particularly on the issue of enriched uranium, according to information from the New York Times and sources cited by Reuters. Despite significant progress, both parties remain deeply divided on the terms of a lasting compromise.

At the heart of the tensions, Washington is demanding a suspension of Iran’s uranium enrichment for a period of 20 years, as well as the transfer of its enriched uranium stocks out of the country. Tehran, on the other hand, is proposing a much shorter suspension, limited to five years, and categorically rejects any export of these sensitive materials. Iranian authorities, however, state that they are willing to significantly reduce the enrichment level, an option deemed inadequate by the United States, who fear a quick resumption of the nuclear program for military purposes.

High-level negotiations, recently held in Islamabad, concluded without a breakthrough, although discussions are ongoing. According to several sources close to the matter, the negotiators were nonetheless “very close” to an agreement, with some citing progress of nearly 80%, before stumbling blocks derailed the final decisions.

Vice President JD Vance, however, mentioned “a lot of progress,” while stating that the next steps now depend on Tehran. Washington is particularly expecting additional gestures from Iran, including on regional issues such as the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, now linked to the progress of the negotiations.

[Context: The article discusses the failed negotiations between the United States and Iran on the Iranian nuclear program, focusing on the disagreement over enriched uranium and the suspension period.] [Fact Check: The article mentions Vice President JD Vance, but it’s worth verifying if he was in office during the specified date of April 13, 2026.]