Trump Says Ready To Accept '20-Year Pause' In Iran's Nuclear Program

"20 years is enough. But the level of guarantee from them it's got to be a real 20 years," Trump said, while speaking to reporters on Air Force One.

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File image of US President Donald Trump
(Photo: PTI)

US President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible breakthrough in the long-running nuclear negotiations with Iran, saying a deal to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions could be within reach after months of heightened military tensions in the Gulf region.

Trump had suggested that Iran may agree to halt uranium enrichment for up to 20 years as part of a broader agreement aimed at preventing the country from developing nuclear weapons. “Twenty years is enough,” Trump reportedly said, adding that if a deal is finalised, “they can't have nuclear weapons.”

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The renewed diplomatic push comes after a volatile phase earlier this year that saw intense confrontation between the US, Israel and Iran, including a US-led blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. 

Iran has since reopened the critical oil shipping route, signalling a possible move towards de-escalation, although American naval presence in the region continues.

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ALSO READ: Iran's Araghchi Uses BRICS Platform To Call For UNSC Rejig, Flags 'Widespread Injustice'

Reports indicate negotiators are discussing a 14-point memorandum designed to end the 2026 Gulf conflict, with provisions ranging from sanctions relief to guarantees that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons capability. 

Media reports also claimed that a possible arrangement involving the release of $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets was under discussion in exchange for Tehran surrendering enriched uranium stockpiles, though Trump denied that any direct financial transfer would take place.

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Despite growing optimism from Washington, Iranian officials have questioned the seriousness of the US approach, saying key proposals remain unacceptable and negotiations remain fragile.

ALSO READ: Iran 'Never Wanted Nuclear Weapon', Says Araghchi; Open To Offer Safe Hormuz Passage

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