Iran reviewing proposals on its nuclear programme

The Islamic Republic of Iran is presently reviewing proposals presented by Qatari chief mediator to resolve differences over Tehran's nuclear program, according to officials from both nations. This development has sparked optimism that the two sides might be approaching indirect negotiations on one of the most contentious issues in President Donald Trump's administration's foreign policy agenda - ending the eight-month-old war.

However, one official emphasized that Iran is, for now, unprepared to engage in talks with the Trump administration without the US agreeing to several of Iran's core conditions, which have been repeatedly demanded in any ceasefire agreement.

The heightened engagement between Iran and Qatari officials has come just days after the US Republican Party suffered a major electoral setback in the midterm elections, which can be attributed in part to voter dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of the conflict and the resulting rise in fuel prices, impacting various global sectors. While the White House has not responded to inquiries about the proposed Qatar-mediated talks, President Trump confirmed on Friday that discussions with Iran are ongoing.

Tehran, however, insists on several concessions from the US, which Trump has previously refused to provide. These demands include lifting the US blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, compensating for war damages, and ending hostilities in the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran are reportedly discussing a potential "bridge deal" to facilitate further talks on Tehran's nuclear program.

The proposal, presented by Qatar mediators, suggests implementing trust-building measures over two days, which include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of Iran's frozen funds, in exchange for allowing IAEA inspectors at sites bombed by the US and Israel.

If implemented, the measures would pave the way for extensive talks between the US and Iran, addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium and other aspects of its nuclear program. Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful, with the International Atomic Energy Agency reporting 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a step away from weapons-grade levels of 90%.

Diplomatic efforts have intensified following the US midterm elections, with various leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond engaging in phone calls to ease tensions in the region.