The U.S. and Iran are negotiating the release of $20 billion in frozen funds in exchange for Tehran giving up its stockpile of enriched uranium, according to a new report.
Axios detailed that Iran has about 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium buried in underground facilities bombed by the U.S. last year, including 450 kilograms enriched to 60%, close to weapons grade.
Washington and Tehran are negotiating what would happen to the stockpile and how Iran could use unfrozen funds. The U.S. initially offered $6 billion for Iran to buy food, medicine and humanitarian supplies, while Iran demanded $27 billion.
As for the stockpile, the U.S. demanded Iran send it over, while Iran said it could "down-blend" it inside the country. A compromise could involve sending part of it to a third country and down-blending the rest in Iran.
As for future nuclear work, Iran would be allowed research reactors to produce medical isotopes but pledge to keep all facilities above ground. The underground ones would remain out of commission.
The outlet added there has been progress in the talks but gaps remain. There could be a new round of talks in Pakistan this weekend, likely on Sunday.
Trump has expressed optimism, saying "Iran wants to make a deal" and "we're dealing very nicely with them." He went on the express hope that the ceasefire with the country won't need to be extended after it expires next Tuesday.
"We have a very good relationship with Iran right now... and I think it's a combination of about four weeks of bombing and a very powerful blockade," Trump said, in reference to the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which is preventing Tehran from exporting oil through the key waterway.
In an event in Las Vegas on Thursday Trump also said the war "should be ending pretty soon" and could even go to Pakistan for a signing ceremony if a deal is indeed reached. "They want me," he said.
