Iran Signals Willingness for Nuclear Concessions if U.S. Conditions Met, Official States

Iran, Feb 23 : Iran has indicated it is ready to make significant concessions in its nuclear programme if the United States lifts sanctions and recognises Tehran’s right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions and the risk of military escalation following two rounds of talks, a senior Iranian official told Reuters.

The concessions include potentially sending half of its highly enriched uranium abroad, diluting the remainder, and participating in a regional enrichment consortium. Iran also proposed allowing U.S. companies to invest as contractors in its oil and gas sector, offering economic incentives alongside nuclear compromises.

Negotiations remain complex amid disagreements

Despite these offers, both nations remain divided over the sequencing and scope of sanctions relief. Tehran insists on a logical timetable for lifting economic sanctions, while Washington continues to press for restrictions on uranium enrichment and Iranian missile programmes.

The Iranian official emphasised that the country’s stockpiles and facilities would remain under domestic control, with extensive monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to demonstrate compliance and prevent weapons development.

Economic and diplomatic stakes

Iran framed the talks as an opportunity for mutually beneficial economic cooperation, highlighting that U.S. companies could act as contractors without gaining control over resources. Meanwhile, U.S. authorities, including President Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, continue to weigh the option of limited military strikes as talks progress.

Analysts suggest Tehran’s concessions aim to buy time to strengthen its facilities while maintaining a path for diplomacy. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed plans to meet the U.S. envoy in Geneva on Thursday, calling the possibility of a diplomatic solution “good” despite ongoing challenges.