The news outlet Axios has reported, citing a US official, that the Trump administration is prepared to consider a proposal allowing Iran “symbolic” nuclear enrichment, provided that no pathway remains toward developing a nuclear bomb.
According to American officials quoted by the outlet, the bar for Iran’s forthcoming nuclear proposal is extremely high. The plan must persuade numerous sceptics within the Trump administration and across the region.
A senior US official stated that President Donald Trump would be willing to accept a deal that is substantive and politically marketable domestically. “If the Iranians want to prevent an attack, they need to give us an offer we cannot refuse. The Iranians keep missing the opportunity. If they play games, there will not be much patience,” the official said.
Axios added that some of Trump’s advisers have urged patience. They argue that over time, and with increased US military reinforcement, Trump’s leverage will grow.
One adviser was quoted as saying: “He has not decided to strike. I know that because we have not struck. He may never do it. He may wake up tomorrow and say: that is it.”
The same adviser added that preparations exist for every scenario. One scenario reportedly involves eliminating Ali Khamenei and his son Mojtaba, who is viewed as a potential successor.
Another source confirmed that a plan to assassinate Khamenei and his son was presented to Trump several weeks ago.
A senior Trump adviser further stated: “Trump is keeping his options open. He can decide to launch an attack at any moment.”
Axios reported that Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner informed Iran’s foreign minister that Trump’s position remains “zero enrichment” on Iranian soil.
However, a US official noted that if a proposal includes “small, symbolic enrichment”, and if Iran provides detailed evidence that it poses no threat, the United States would review it.
Axios also cited a source familiar with the talks as saying that Omani and Qatari mediators have recently informed both Iran and the United States that any agreement must allow both sides to declare victory, and, if possible, be acceptable to Gulf states and Israel.
President Donald Trump renewed his threats against Iran on Friday, revealing that he is considering a limited military strike, though he did not provide further details.
When asked whether he was contemplating a limited strike to pressure Iran into reaching a deal over its nuclear programme, he told reporters at the White House, “I think I can say that I am considering it.”
Two US officials told Reuters that American military planning regarding Iran has reached an advanced stage, with options including targeting individuals as part of an attack, and even pursuing regime change in Tehran if ordered by President Donald Trump.
The potential military options represent the latest indication that the United States is preparing for a serious confrontation with Iran should diplomatic efforts fail.
