Iran will never give up enrichment rights, official tells Reuters

US Vice President JD Vance stated in an interview with Reuters that Iran must make substantial cuts to its nuclear enrichment capacity to end the ongoing war between the two nations. Vance, who has become a significant figure in negotiations, has brokered a provisional peace agreement last June that failed shortly after. This conflict has caused a ripple effect in global energy markets and poses a political challenge for President Donald Trump and his Republican party ahead of the November midterm elections.

In response to recent proposals from both countries aimed at resolving the war and opening the Strait of Hormuz, Vance emphasized the need for concrete Iranian nuclear concessions. He stated that Iran must reduce its enriched fuel levels, specifically highlighting the 60% enriched fuel as an issue of concern. The US remains open to an agreement, but any deal would require tangible reductions in Iran's nuclear enrichment capabilities, rather than mere promises of future nuclear disarmament.

Vance also expressed uncertainty about the decision-making process within Iran's government, citing the lack of clarity about who holds authority in the country's power structure. Despite this ambiguity, the US is engaged in discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. Trump, meanwhile, has expressed frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding Iran's leadership.

Vance, who has reportedly spoken with field commanders and dismissed concerns about munitions shortages, dismissed claims of critical munitions shortages. He added that while Iranian troops can occasionally target commercial ships in the Hormuz Strait, they are largely hindered from preventing energy exports via the waterway. Vance declined to disclose whether he is spearheading the peace talks, as the ultimate decision-making power lies with the US President.