What's happened
US President Donald Trump has reiterated his demand for the total dismantlement of Iran's nuclear program during ongoing negotiations. While some officials express openness to limited civilian nuclear energy, the administration remains firm against any enrichment that could lead to weapons development. Talks are set to continue this weekend in Rome.
What's behind the headline?
Key Points:
- Divergent Views: Trump's comments reflect a split within the administration regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities. While he demands total dismantlement, some officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggest a more flexible approach allowing limited civilian use.
- Negotiation Dynamics: The upcoming talks in Rome are crucial. Iran's willingness to engage in dialogue contrasts with its ongoing uranium enrichment activities, which have raised alarms internationally.
- Regional Implications: Israel's concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions add pressure to the negotiations. Prime Minister Netanyahu's insistence on a 'Libya-style' agreement underscores the stakes involved.
- Potential Outcomes: The negotiations could lead to a new framework that integrates Iran into the global economy while ensuring it cannot develop nuclear weapons. However, failure could escalate military tensions in the region.
What the papers say
According to The Times of Israel, Trump stated, "Total dismantlement. Yes, that is all I would accept," emphasizing his hardline stance on Iran's nuclear program. Conversely, the NY Post highlighted that Trump is open to discussions about civilian nuclear energy, reflecting a nuanced approach within his administration. Vice President JD Vance noted, "We don’t care if people want nuclear power... but you can’t have the kind of enrichment program that allows you to get to a nuclear weapon," indicating a potential compromise. The contrasting views among officials illustrate the complexities of the negotiations, as both sides seek to balance security concerns with diplomatic engagement.
How we got here
Since the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, tensions have escalated. Recent talks began on April 12, 2025, marking the highest-level engagement since the withdrawal. Iran's nuclear program, which it claims is for civilian use, has raised concerns among US and allied officials.
Go deeper
- What are the implications of the US-Iran negotiations?
- How does Israel view the current talks?
- What are the potential outcomes of the negotiations?
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Iran, also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered to the northwest by Armenia and Azerbaijan, to the north by the Caspian Sea, to the northeast by Turkmenistan, to the east by Afghanistan a
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Steven Charles Witkoff is an American real estate investor and landlord based in New York City, and founder of the Witkoff Group.
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Marco Antonio Rubio is an American attorney and politician currently serving as the senior United States Senator from Florida. A Republican, Rubio previously served as Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.