Trump says Iran counter-proposal ‘not acceptable’ as negotiations continue
President Donald Trump recently confirmed that he had a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding Iran and the ongoing negotiations. After the call, Trump spoke to reporters and emphasized Washington’s efforts to reach a deal to avoid direct conflict. He stated, “We’re trying to make a deal so that there’s no destruction and death. And we’ve told them that, and I’ve told them that, and I hope that’s the way it works out.” However, he acknowledged that there is uncertainty about the outcome of the negotiations.
According to Trump, Iran has already returned a counter-proposal to the U.S. following the rejection of a proposal last week. He mentioned that the Iranian counter-proposal is “just not acceptable,” and further negotiations are required, particularly regarding enrichment-related demands.
The call between Trump and Netanyahu took place amidst concerns raised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nation’s nuclear watchdog. The IAEA warned that it cannot verify whether Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful, despite the regime’s claims. Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the IAEA, expressed concerns about Iran’s nuclear activities. He highlighted that the agency has been denied access to old and new nuclear sites, and Iran has attempted to cover up its activities by scrubbing locations.
Grossi stated that the IAEA found enriched uranium particles at three sites in Iran, indicating a resurgence of nuclear ambitions. He expressed frustration over Iran’s lack of cooperation in providing credible answers to the agency’s questions. The IAEA has been working closely with both the U.S. and Iran to support their bilateral negotiations.
Recent reports from the IAEA revealed that Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of near-weapons-grade enriched uranium in just three months. The regime’s possession of 60% enriched uranium puts it close to the capability of producing nuclear warheads. Despite pressure from the U.S. for Iran to end its nuclear program, Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected a U.S. proposal, claiming it was against Iran’s interests.
The White House has not disclosed the details of the U.S. proposal, but reports suggest that Iran has until June 11 to reach a deal with the U.S. Iranian officials have stated that the U.S. proposal is unacceptable and have plans to present their own proposal through Oman. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that their proposal is reasonable, logical, and balanced.
As the negotiations between the U.S. and Iran continue, the international community closely watches the developments to prevent the escalation of tensions in the region. The outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications for global security and stability.
