U.S. and Iran Discuss Uranium Disposal Options in Ongoing Talks

U.S. officials are weighing two face-saving options for Iran to dispose of its enriched uranium as part of broader negotiations. One proposal would have Iran deliver the material to Pakistan, Turkey, Russia or China for possible later transfer to the U.S. A second option would allow Iran to heavily dilute the uranium under strict international oversight.

An initial memorandum of understanding could be finalized by the end of this week. It would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and confirm an agreement in principle by Tehran to cease future nuclear enrichment. A second round of talks would then focus on dismantling Iran's nuclear program. Officials said the dilution option would require strict international oversight subject to additional negotiation.

A U.S. official said the goal is language that allows both sides to save face. The same official noted the president would still prefer the material eventually reach the U.S. but that interim options are under discussion. A different senior administration official said Iran has national pride considerations at play.

That official added that no one disputes the stockpiled enriched material will be disposed of. A White House principal deputy press secretary said in a statement that anything attributed to unnamed sources should be considered baseless speculation. All announcements regarding a potential deal will come from the president or administration directly.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman said Monday that negotiators have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion. The spokesman added that it is too early to say an agreement is imminent. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters discussions remain a work in progress.

Rubio said there is a solid proposal on the table regarding reopening the strait and that the president is not in a hurry to make a bad deal.