The National:

The US and Iran are moving towards in-depth technical discussions over Tehran’s nuclear programme, with details of a potential agreement beginning to emerge in what could become a new deal.

Both sides have outlined their positions, but they remain far apart. What Iran appears willing to offer falls short of what Washington is demanding in exchange for sanctions relief and the avoidance of war.

As diplomacy over what US President Donald Trump once described as an “obliterated nuclear programme” unfolds alongside threats of military action, hopes are growing that an agreement can be reached before tension escalates.

Here are the key elements announced so far of what could become a new nuclear deal to replace the 2015 accord.

What Iran is offering

Iran has signalled willingness to accept limits on its nuclear activities, but not to dismantle its programme entirely.

Officials have indicated Tehran could suspend high-level uranium enrichment and dilute its existing stockpile of 60 per cent enriched uranium, reducing its proliferation risk.

“Dilution is on the table,” said head of Information Council Elias Hazrati after the conclusion of the Geneva talks on Thursday evening. “Iran wants the sanctions to be lifted.”

Tehran may also agree to cap enrichment at lower levels suitable for civilian use, allow expanded inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency, and limit the size of its enriched uranium stockpile.

Such steps would increase the time Iran would need to produce weapons-grade material, addressing one of Washington’s primary concerns.

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