US Demands Permanent Abandonment of Iran Nuclear Enrichment in Talks

President Donald Trump has indicated he is not satisfied with the proposed 20-year pause on uranium enrichment in the second round of talks concerning Iran's nuclear program, signaling a hardline stance demanding the permanent abandonment of the program. Speaking in multiple interviews on the 14th (local time), Trump hinted at a potential deal by the end of the month, stating, "I don't like the 20-year period," expressing displeasure with Iran's long-term approach to its nuclear activities. The White House later shared a video of Trump's interview with anchor Maria Bartiromo on X (formerly Twitter).

Iran's Foreign Ministry on the 15th (local time) reiterated its stance that while the level of uranium enrichment is open for discussion, enrichment itself must continue, reaffirming its refusal to abandon its nuclear program. Iran's state news agency IRNA reported that Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaie said, "The level of uranium enrichment is negotiable, but enrichment must continue."

US Vice President J.D. Vance stated at an event in Georgia on the 14th that the delay in reaching an agreement is due to President Trump prioritizing the prevention of Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He added that Trump seeks a "grand bargain" conditional on Iran's complete nuclear disarmament, rather than a short-term "small deal."

Following the first round of previous negotiations held in Islamabad, Pakistan, on the 11th and 12th, President Trump hinted at the possibility of "something happening within two days." The Washington Post reported on the 15th that the deployment of thousands of additional US troops is planned.