America-Iran face to face in uranium dispute: Demand of 20 years vs 5 years created deadlock in talks

New Delhi: The important talks going on between America and Iran seem to be stuck once again due to major differences. The talks have been derailed due to the two countries not being able to agree on a deadline for uranium enrichment, dealing a blow to ceasefire efforts.

According to reports, while the US demanded a long-term moratorium on uranium production from Iran, Tehran proposed a shorter period. This disagreement has complicated the ongoing talks between the two countries.

America wants a ban of 20 years

According to Axios report, during recent important talks, the US proposed Iran to accept a moratorium on uranium enrichment for at least 20 years.

"The United States suggested a sentence of at least 20 years, along with all other restrictions." That highlights the scale of Washington’s demands over Tehran’s nuclear program, a source familiar with the discussions told Axios.

Iran’s answer: Only 5 years proposal

According to Al Jazeera’s report, Iran rejected this proposal and suggested a much shorter deadline. During marathon talks, Tehran offered to suspend uranium enrichment for five years.

This difference reflects the deep differences between the two countries.

Conflict over nuclear program became a major obstacle

According to Axios, the biggest controversy is over whether Iran will completely stop uranium enrichment and deplete its existing stockpile.

The US side demanded complete removal of highly enriched uranium from Iran, while Tehran proposed a monitored down-blending process instead, the report said.

Discussion of 12.5 year agreement

Meanwhile, political scientist Ian Bremmer said on Tuesday that the US and Iran are likely to be close to reaching an agreement on suspending uranium enrichment for 12.5 years.

However, he did not share the source or other details of his claim.

Negotiations continue despite mediation

Despite the deadlock, the talks are not completely over. A US official told Axios that discussions between the two sides are continuing and progress is being made towards an agreement.

The talks are being brokered by Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey and were considered an important opportunity to reduce tensions before the fragile ceasefire that will continue till April 21.

Efforts of mediator countries continue

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif said that efforts are on to resolve the remaining differences between the two sides.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdellatty and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan are also playing an active role in this process.

Fidan said that initial positions in such talks are often tough and both sides are trying to move towards consensus.

Tension increased during talks

The report also revealed that tension increased due to the sudden departure of the American delegation from Islamabad.

Iranian negotiators, who had been hoping for an early agreement, were shocked by Vice President J.D. Vance’s public comments in which he blamed Tehran and signaled the end of talks.

"Iranian people were very angry with that press conference," a source told Axios.

Trump claims: Iran is ready for agreement

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that from Washington "rightful people of iran" Has reached out and Tehran is ready for agreement.

He also indicated that the US was taking steps to increase pressure, including announcing a blockade targeting ships linked to Iran.