Context:

Iran has proposed a joint nuclear-enrichment venture involving regional Arab countries and American investments as an alternative to dismantling its nuclear program, a move that has sparked debate about its feasibility and strategic implications. This proposal, discussed in recent talks between Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and US special envoy Steve Witkoff in Oman, suggests a permanent consortium where Iran enriches uranium to a low grade for civilian use in Arab countries, with international oversight. Despite the US's public denial of such discussions, the proposal could potentially address long-standing tensions by offering a diplomatic path to alleviate nuclear threats and sanctions. President Trump has expressed conditional openness to a deal, emphasizing the need for Iran to make timely decisions to avoid further sanctions, while Iran insists on its right to civilian nuclear enrichment. The plan has yet to gain clear support from regional players like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who have their own nuclear ambitions and strategic concerns about regional nuclear proliferation.

Dive Deeper:

• Iran's proposed nuclear-enrichment venture aims to involve Arab countries and American investments, offering an alternative to dismantling its nuclear program, a longstanding demand by the United States. The proposal suggests a permanent consortium with Iran enriching uranium for civilian use, under international oversight, to ensure transparency and alleviate nuclear threats.

• During talks in Oman, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi presented this idea to US special envoy Steve Witkoff, though the US has publicly denied that such discussions took place. The proposal has sparked debate within Iran, with some viewing it as a strategic move and others questioning its potential impact on national sovereignty.

• President Trump, visiting Saudi Arabia, has indicated a willingness to negotiate with Iran, emphasizing the importance of a diplomatic resolution to enhance regional safety. However, he warned Iran of increased sanctions if a timely decision is not made, aligning with the US's goal to dismantle Iran's nuclear facilities completely.

• Iran maintains its right to civilian nuclear enrichment as a matter of national pride and non-negotiable, highlighting past sacrifices for its nuclear program. The proposal, however, opens the possibility for diplomatic progress, with both sides describing recent talks as productive and conducive to further expert discussions.

• The feasibility of the joint venture remains uncertain, especially regarding the involvement of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who have their own nuclear ambitions. The UAE's past agreement with the US, which prohibits uranium enrichment, raises concerns about potential regional nuclear proliferation and the strategic balance.

• Seyed Hossein Mousavian, a former Iranian diplomat, suggests that the proposal could address US concerns by reducing Iran's nuclear threat and containing regional enrichment ambitions. If successful, it could represent a significant diplomatic victory by mitigating immediate and future nuclear tensions.

• The proposed consortium reflects a shift from zero-sum demands towards a compromise that could save face for both Iran and the US, potentially averting military confrontation and fostering stability in the Middle East. The outcome of ongoing technical negotiations will be crucial for the proposal's viability and acceptance by all parties involved.