Iran and U.S. Diverge on Sanctions Relief, Says Iranian Official

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Iran and the United States are at odds over the terms of sanctions relief during negotiations aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program, according to a senior Iranian official who spoke to Reuters on Sunday. New discussions are scheduled for early March amid rising concerns of potential military conflict.

Earlier this month, Iran and the U.S. resumed talks to resolve their long-standing dispute over Iran’s nuclear development. This diplomatic effort comes as the U.S. increases its military presence in the Middle East, heightening fears of a broader war.

Iran has issued warnings that it might target U.S. military bases in the region if attacked directly by U.S. forces.

“The recent negotiations revealed that U.S. proposals regarding the scope and mechanism for lifting sanctions do not align with Iran’s expectations. Both sides must agree on a logical timetable for ending sanctions,” the official commented. “This plan should be fair and serve mutual interests.”

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated on Friday that a draft counterproposal could be ready within days, while U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned he was considering limited military actions.

While Iran has refused to accept a U.S. demand for complete “zero enrichment” — a key sticking point in past talks — it has signaled willingness to make concessions. Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium and denies any pursuit of nuclear weapons.

The U.S. has pressed Iran to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium (HEU). The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog estimated last year that Iran possesses over 440 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60%, approaching the 90% purity needed for weapons-grade material.

An Iranian official noted that Tehran is open to exporting part of its HEU, diluting the enriched uranium’s purity, or forming a regional enrichment consortium in exchange for recognition of its right to pursue “peaceful nuclear enrichment.”

“Negotiations are ongoing, and there is a real possibility of reaching an interim agreement,” the official added.

Iranian officials suggest that a diplomatic resolution could benefit both nations economically. “As part of the ongoing negotiations, the U.S. has been offered opportunities for significant investment and tangible economic gains in Iran’s oil sector,” the official stated.

However, Iran will not relinquish control of its oil and mineral resources. “Ultimately, the U.S. can be a business partner for Iran—nothing more. American companies are always welcome to serve as contractors in Iran’s oil and gas projects.”