A senior Iranian official said that Iran and the United States hold different views on sanctions relief during ongoing negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program. The official confirmed that both sides plan to continue discussions in early March as regional tensions remain high. Moreover, the talks aim to prevent further escalation amid fears of military confrontation. Diplomats are seeking common ground despite persistent disagreements.
According to the official, the latest round of negotiations revealed gaps between US proposals and Iran’s expectations regarding the scope and timing of lifting sanctions. Tehran insists on a clear and logical timetable for sanctions removal based on mutual interests. In addition, Iranian authorities argue that any agreement must include structured economic relief measures. Therefore, negotiators continue working toward a balanced and practical framework.
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Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran will present a draft counterproposal soon, signaling ongoing engagement in diplomacy. At the same time, US President Donald Trump indicated he is considering limited military options, increasing concerns about regional stability. Consequently, both diplomatic progress and security risks remain closely linked in the current environment. Officials on both sides continue evaluating next steps carefully.
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The core dispute centers on uranium enrichment, as the United States demands a complete halt, while Iran rejects the “zero enrichment” requirement. Tehran insists that its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment must be recognized under international agreements. Furthermore, Washington views enrichment activities as a potential pathway to weapons development. Iran, however, denies any intention to build nuclear arms and emphasizes civilian objectives.
Additionally, discussions include proposals for managing Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which international monitors previously estimated at more than 440 kilograms enriched to near-weapons levels. Iranian officials suggested possible compromises, including exporting part of the stockpile, diluting enrichment levels, or forming a regional enrichment consortium. They stated that such measures could support recognition of peaceful nuclear rights. Therefore, negotiations remain focused on technical solutions and verification mechanisms.
Despite differences, both sides acknowledge that diplomatic engagement could produce economic benefits and potentially lead to an interim agreement. Iranian officials said the United States could gain investment opportunities in Iran’s oil sector under an economic package under discussion. However, Tehran stressed that it will retain control over its natural resources. Ultimately, negotiators continue talks, and officials say reaching a temporary agreement remains possible if mutual interests align.