JCPOA Palais Coburg Vienna 27 December 2021.
Key Facts
• February 2: Ali Shamkhani, senior advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, affirms nuclear program is peaceful.
• Iran offers to reduce uranium enrichment from 60% to 20% if concerns arise.
• Iran demands some form of reciprocal benefit from the U.S. for lowering enrichment levels.
• Russia’s proposal to take enriched uranium is rejected; no plans to transfer uranium abroad.
• Iran insists on continuing support for its proxy forces despite tensions.
• U.S.-Iran talks to start indirectly; direct negotiations possible if positions align.
• February 6: U.S. President Trump sets conditions for talks in Turkey, including stopping uranium enrichment, limiting ballistic missile programs, and halting proxy support.
• Outcome of negotiations remains uncertain due to significant differences.
Summary
Amid renewed U.S.-Iran negotiations, Iran’s senior official Ali Shamkhani stated on February 2 that Iran’s nuclear activities are peaceful and expressed willingness to reduce uranium enrichment from 60% to 20% if concerns exist. However, Iran demands reciprocal concessions from the U.S. He also dismissed Russia’s suggestion to relocate enriched uranium, confirming no plans to move it abroad. Iran will continue supporting its proxy forces despite ongoing tensions. The U.S., led by President Trump, plans to resume talks in Turkey on February 6, demanding Iran halt uranium enrichment, restrict ballistic missile development, and cease proxy support. Initial talks will be indirect, with direct negotiations contingent on mutual agreement. The prospects for bridging the gap between the two sides remain unclear.
