Trump demands stricter changes to Iran deal, delaying talks by days

What happened

Regional source The New Arab reports that US President Donald Trump has insisted on stricter terms in the proposed agreement with Iran, causing renewed delays in a nuclear deal expected to curb Iran’s uranium enrichment and ease US sanctions. US media, including The New York Times and Axios, reveal that Trump submitted a revised proposal after expressing frustration over Iran's slow response to previous offers.

The proposal, reportedly developed with mediation from Pakistan, was sent to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, for review. Trump held a two-hour meeting to discuss the deal but left without a conclusion, seeking terms he described as "good only for the United States" and conforming to Washington’s "red lines." According to Axios, the changes focus on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and the implementation timeline, as well as revisiting provisions for reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Under the existing draft, Iran commits not to pursue nuclear weapons while both parties negotiate detailed terms over 60 days, covering nuclear activities and sanctions relief. However, communications challenges within Iran's political leadership could extend their response time by several days. A senior US official quoted by Axios noted that Iran’s leadership is difficult to reach, reportedly "literally in caves and they don't use email."

Known from the source

• Trump demanded changes to a proposed Iran nuclear deal, delaying negotiations by several days.
• The revised proposal includes stricter conditions on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and the agreement timetable.
• The proposal was developed with mediators including Pakistan.
• It was forwarded to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, for approval.
• Trump held a two-hour meeting on the deal but left without a final decision.

What remains unclear

This delay and demand for stricter conditions underscore the fragile nature of the negotiations and the significant hurdles remaining. The outcome will impact US policy on Iran’s nuclear program, regional maritime security, and international geopolitical alignments involving sanctions enforcement and diplomatic engagement.

What remains unclear: Iran’s official response to the revised proposal and any changes they may demand. Details and exact terms of the revised proposal and any modifications to the enrichment or sanctions timelines. Verification of Pakistan’s mediation role and extent of involvement. Confirmation of the communication difficulties within Iran's leadership as reported.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: The New Arab. Open the source.