ROME, Italy – Negotiations between Iran and the United States over Tehran’s civil nuclear program are facing a significant hurdle as Iran resists a US proposal to transfer its highly enriched uranium stockpile to a third country. This proposal is part of Washington’s efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. The talks were recently held in Muscat, Oman, with Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, and Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff engaging in discussions.

Iran insists that its stockpile, amassed over the past four years, should remain in Iran under the strict supervision of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency. Tehran views this as a precautionary measure against the possibility of a future US administration withdrawing from any agreement, as happened in 2018 when Donald Trump rejected the 2015 deal brokered by Barack Obama.

While most of the talks were held indirectly between the Iranian and US delegations in Muscat, direct discussions between Witkoff and Araghchi also took place. The next round of talks is set to take place in Rome, Italy, hosted by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This move is seen as a political gesture by Trump towards Italy, potentially impacting the role of major European powers in the negotiations, with Oman continuing to serve as a mediator.

Iran is negotiating under the threat of escalating sanctions and even a possible military strike on its nuclear facilities by the US. With the Iranian economy struggling, Tehran is eager to attract direct investment by lifting US sanctions. Talks have begun concerning insurance options for companies looking to invest in Iran should relations with the US deteriorate further.

The US has primarily focused on the nuclear aspect of its dialogue with Iran, leaving out discussions on Tehran’s regional activities. This exclusion has raised concerns among Israel and anti-regime hawks in Washington. Iran, on the other hand, points to Israel’s actions in Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine as destabilizing behaviors in the region.

Recent events, including the fall of Bashar al-Assad in Syria and US actions in Yemen, have weakened Iran’s influence in the region. Additionally, Iran’s oil export fleet is facing increased pressure from US sanctions. The ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region’s geopolitical landscape.