An Iranian official stated to Reuters that Iran is contemplating sending half of its enriched uranium stockpile overseas while diluting the remainder. This move is accompanied by Iran's intention to create a regional uranium enrichment consortium, an idea that has been periodically discussed during diplomatic talks with Tehran. The official emphasized that Iran is prepared to take these steps if the US acknowledges Iran's right to peaceful uranium enrichment as part of a potential nuclear agreement, which would also require lifting the economic sanctions imposed on Iran.

In the ongoing discussions with the US, the Iranian side has proposed involving American companies in Iran's oil and gas extraction projects. Diplomatic efforts to limit Iran’s nuclear program resumed in early February. Meanwhile, the US has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East region by deploying a naval strike group to the Persian Gulf, indicating heightened tensions in the region and the complexities of the negotiations.

The interactions between Washington and Tehran reflect a complex landscape where nuclear talks are intertwined with economic opportunities and military posturing. As such, the outcomes of these negotiations not only have implications for Iran's nuclear ambitions but also for its economic relations with the US and the broader geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.