Iran and the United States have started negotiations. What you need to know

The United States and Iran began negotiations after exchanging tough conditions — 15 points from Washington and 10 demands from Tehran. Both sides are already talking about their victory, although it is not yet possible to agree on key issues. The disagreements relate to the nuclear program, sanctions, military presence and control over important routes. What you need to know about the parties' plans is in the Izvestia article.

15 US points

• The United States has prepared a list of 15 conditions for Iran, which actually acts as an exchange offer: the cessation of hostilities as part of Operation Epic Fury in response to a fundamental revision of Tehran's military and nuclear policies.

• The main focus is on the nuclear program. Iran is required to completely stop uranium enrichment, transfer existing materials under the control of international structures and dismantle key facilities, including the centers in Natanz, Fordo and Isfahan. In other words, we are talking about the complete dismantling of the infrastructure associated with the possible creation of nuclear weapons.

• A separate section concerns missile capabilities. It is proposed to reduce both the range and the number of ballistic missiles in order to reduce the threat to neighboring countries and military installations in the region. These measures are seen as an essential part of a broader strategy to reduce Iran's military activity.

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• The economic component implies reciprocal steps on the part of the United States, in particular, the possible lifting of sanctions and support for the development of peaceful nuclear energy. But such concessions will be granted only under strict international control, so that Iran fulfills all conditions and acts openly.

• In addition, the document highlights regional requirements. Iran must guarantee free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which is of key importance for the global oil trade. He is also expected to stop supporting allied armed groups in various countries of the Middle East.

10 points of Iran

In response, Iran handed over to the United States a package of 10 conditions, with security guarantees at the center of its demands. Tehran insists that Washington and its allies must abandon any attacks and not use the pause to prepare new military actions.

• Control of the Strait of Hormuz is also of great importance. Iran wants to maintain control of this important oil supply route. At the same time, he demands to recognize his right to enrich uranium and is not ready to abandon the nuclear program, considering it a matter of principle.

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• Serious emphasis is placed on economics. Tehran demands the complete lifting of all sanctions, including secondary restrictions, and is also seeking to overturn the decisions of the UN Security Council and the IAEA related to its nuclear activities. In addition, he demands compensation for the damage caused.

In addition, Iran insists on the withdrawal of American troops from the region, considering their presence a source of tension. An important condition remains the cessation of hostilities not only directly, but also in other locations, including Lebanon.

The main contradictions

• The main differences between the plans affect the basic issues of security and sovereignty. Washington demands the complete abandonment of uranium enrichment, the transfer of materials under international control and the dismantling of facilities in Natanz, Fordo and Isfahan. Iran insists on the right to continue its nuclear program and sees this as a strategic guarantee.

• Both sides are also trying to reduce each other's influence, which makes compromise extremely difficult. The United States is seeking to reduce missile capabilities and end support for allied armed groups in the region. Iran demands the withdrawal of American troops and an end to pressure on its partners.

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• The economic conditions for a complete stabilization of the situation in the region also vary. The United States is ready to lift sanctions gradually and only if the requirements are met, while maintaining the control mechanism. Iran demands the immediate lifting of all restrictions, including secondary ones, and insists on compensation.

Evaluation of plans

• In the United States, the reaction to Iran's plan was harsh at first. Special Representative Steve Witkoff called the initial version unsuccessful. Later, the approach changed, and the parties agreed on a temporary cessation of hostilities for 2 weeks. There have even been reports in the media that Washington has already agreed to unblock Iranian assets. US President Donald Trump said that the parties had reached a final agreement and settled most of their differences, calling it a complete victory for the United States.

• In Tehran, they also declared their victory. Tehran demands a complete cessation of hostilities, reliable security guarantees and compensation. At the same time, the country is trying to use the current situation to consolidate its influence in the region and strengthen its political position.