Iran Reviews US Nuclear Deal Offer Amid Rising Tensions

By Amir Daftari

Iran says it is reviewing a formal U.S. proposal for a new nuclear deal between the two countries. The offer, delivered last week, represents the most significant step toward a potential agreement between Washington and Tehran since talks began in April, although both sides remain divided on critical issues such as uranium enrichment and sanctions relief.

At the same time, The Wall Street Journal reported that the White House has ordered a freeze on new sanctions against Iran, effectively pausing President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" campaign as officials reassess their approach amid ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Newsweek has reached out the State Department and Iran's foreign ministry for comment.

Why It Matters

A potential nuclear deal between the U.S. and Iran could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and impact global non-proliferation efforts. Tehran's advancing uranium enrichment program raises alarms about nuclear weapon development, making the proposed agreement a pivotal development. The simultaneous freeze on sanctions underscores Washington's strategic shift toward diplomacy, balancing pressure with engagement.

What To Know

The U.S. proposal, crafted by President Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, sets out terms aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is carefully reviewing the offer—the first official U.S. deal since indirect talks began earlier this year. Central issues include Iran's right to uranium enrichment and the extent of sanctions easing. Araghchi confirmed on social media that Iran received the proposal via Oman's foreign minister, pledging a response "in line with the principles, national interests, and rights of the Iranian people."

Iran's uranium enrichment activities have intensified, with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reporting that Tehran now possesses over 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity—close to weapons-grade levels. The IAEA also noted Iran's refusal to grant inspectors full access, raising questions about the true extent of its nuclear program. Iran denies any intention to develop nuclear weapons and insists its nuclear activities are peaceful.

Meanwhile, the White House's decision to halt new sanctions reflects growing concerns that a hardline approach might derail negotiations. According to The Wall Street Journal, the freeze was communicated by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt to officials at the National Security Council, Treasury Department, and State Department. This pause allows Washington to reassess its strategy as it balances "maximum pressure" with diplomatic engagement.

Iran's Position

Iran has consistently maintained that any agreement must respect its right to uranium enrichment and lift sanctions imposed on its economy. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei defended Tehran's cooperation with the IAEA and dismissed criticism of Iran's nuclear record as politically motivated. Iran also condemned the recent IAEA report, calling it biased and reiterating its commitment to non-proliferation treaties.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt speaks during the daily press briefing in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House on May 29, 2025 in Washington, DC. Leavitt discussed a federal court... More Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

What People Are Saying

Abbas Araghchi, Iranian Foreign Minister: "My dear brother @badralbusaidi, distinguished Foreign Minister of Oman, paid a short visit to Tehran today to present elements of a U.S. proposal which will be appropriately responded to in line with the principles, national interests and rights of the people of Iran."

Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary: "President Trump has made it clear that Iran can never obtain a nuclear bomb. It is in Tehran's best interest to accept a detailed and acceptable proposal that has been sent by the U.S."

What Happens Next

As Iran reviews the U.S. proposal, talks continue with both sides seeking common ground amid deep divisions. The freeze on sanctions could pave the way for further diplomatic engagement, but persistent concerns over uranium enrichment and verification remain key obstacles. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a renewed nuclear agreement can be reached or if tensions will escalate further.