Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi on Tuesday said that Iran is open to accepting temporary limitations on uranium enrichment, though he emphasized that discussions with the United States have not yet entered into detailed negotiations on the matter.

“We have not yet gone into details regarding the level and percentage of enrichment,” Takht-Ravanchi stated. “But we have announced, as a general framework, that we can accept, for a limited period, a set of restrictions related to the level and capacity of enrichment and other similar issues in the nuclear field.”

According to Tasnim News Agency, Takht-Ravanchi described these potential measures as confidence-building steps rather than permanent concessions.

No Breakthrough in Oman Talks

His remarks followed a fourth round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S. held in Muscat, Oman, which concluded on Sunday without a breakthrough. Despite ongoing disagreements, particularly over enrichment levels, both sides described the dialogue as constructive.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated on Monday that uranium enrichment is a “non-negotiable” issue. However, he acknowledged a possible openness to capping enrichment levels to ease tensions and foster trust.

“Enrichment is non-negotiable, but we are open to mechanisms that help build confidence,” Araghchi noted.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed this stance, stating that while Iran would “not compromise on its principles,” it also seeks to “avoid unnecessary tensions.”

U.S. Maintains Firm Position

On the American side, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff labeled uranium enrichment a “red line,” reinforcing Washington's long-standing demand that Iran curb its nuclear ambitions.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio added that “Iran remains the only country in the world enriching uranium to 60% without possessing nuclear weapons,” warning that the current enrichment levels are dangerously close to the 90% required for weaponization.

A Tense Return to the Table

The ongoing diplomatic effort is being facilitated by Oman, which played a pivotal role in brokering the original 2015 nuclear deal—formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—between Iran and world powers. That agreement placed strict limits on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

Iran continued to adhere to the JCPOA for about a year after the U.S. unilaterally withdrew in 2018 under then-President Trump. Since then, Tehran has gradually scaled back its commitments, leading to renewed tensions and fears of escalation.

As of now, Iran is enriching uranium to 60%, a level well beyond the JCPOA cap of 3.67% and alarmingly close to weapons-grade.