Iran Suggests Regional Nuclear Partnership as Alternative to U.S. Demands

Iran has put forward a plan to establish a joint nuclear enrichment initiative that would include regional Arab countries alongside American financial participation. This proposal serves as an alternative to the United States’ insistence that Iran dismantle its nuclear program, according to several Iranian insiders familiar with the discussions.

During talks held in Oman, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi presented this concept to a U.S. special envoy. These discussions, both direct and indirect, took place recently, as disclosed by Iranian sources who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations.

Following these developments, multiple Iranian news outlets highlighted the new proposal prominently, with some raising questions about its implications. One publication linked to the Revolutionary Guards Corps questioned whether the plan represented a strategic move or a betrayal.

Responses from U.S. officials involved in the talks, including representatives from the State Department and the National Security Council, have not been forthcoming regarding the proposal.

The practicality of a nuclear collaboration involving Iran and its regional competitors, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, remains uncertain given the longstanding rivalries.

Moreover, the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Iran and the United States for over four decades, combined with potential hesitancy from American private investors, presents additional challenges to advancing such a partnership.