Iran-US Deal: Draft Proposes Uranium Transfer and Strait of Hormuz Reopening

14:30

A new diplomatic initiative aimed at easing tensions between Washington and Tehran is outlining a possible framework that could address two major sources of confrontation: Iran’s nuclear programme and the disruption of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to a preliminary proposal reported by Al Arabiya English and relayed by i24NEWS on October 31, 2026, Iran could consider transferring its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to a third country or reducing its enrichment levels as part of a broader understanding with the United States.

The proposed framework also envisages reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping within seven days of an initial agreement, potentially marking an important step towards restoring regional stability and reducing pressure on global energy markets.

Nuclear Commitments at the Heart of Negotiations

One of the central elements of the draft concerns the future of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. Tehran could reportedly accept transferring the material to another country under an agreed arrangement or lowering its enrichment level.

Such measures would represent significant concessions in an area that has remained at the centre of tensions between Iran and Western powers.

For Washington, limiting Iran’s nuclear capabilities remains a major negotiating priority. Tehran, however, is seeking reciprocal commitments, particularly regarding economic restrictions and the lifting of sanctions.

The preliminary framework reportedly includes corresponding American measures, with the objective of ensuring that concessions made by either side are matched by verifiable commitments from the other.

Strait of Hormuz Could Reopen Within Seven Days

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz represents another major component of the proposed arrangement.

The strategic maritime passage connects the Persian Gulf to international shipping routes and plays a crucial role in global energy transportation. Its prolonged disruption has raised concerns about oil supplies, maritime security and the economic consequences for importing countries.

Under the reported proposal, commercial navigation could resume within seven days after an initial understanding between the two governments.

Restoring traffic through the waterway would be particularly significant for international energy markets, given its importance to global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

China Could Play a Role in Guaranteeing the Agreement

The draft also reportedly identifies China as a potential guarantor of the agreement, offering a possible mechanism to support its implementation and durability.

Another element under consideration involves holding direct negotiations between American and Iranian representatives in Doha, rather than Istanbul.

The proposal further предусматриates an independent verification mechanism to monitor compliance with the agreed measures. A dispute-resolution arrangement involving mediators and guarantor countries could also help address disagreements during implementation.

These provisions are intended to reduce the risk of either side withdrawing from its commitments without facing an established diplomatic mechanism for resolving disputes.

Major Diplomatic Obstacles Remain

Despite the elements outlined in the draft, reaching a comprehensive agreement remains uncertain. Washington and Tehran continue to disagree over the sequence of negotiations, particularly whether nuclear restrictions should be addressed before or after measures concerning sanctions and maritime access.

Qatar has continued its mediation efforts, with representatives returning to Tehran on October 30 to advance discussions with Iranian officials in coordination with Washington.

The negotiations are unfolding against a backdrop of persistent regional tensions and economic uncertainty. Both governments face difficult decisions over the concessions required to move towards a lasting settlement.

Although the proposed framework does not constitute a final agreement, it outlines a possible diplomatic pathway linking nuclear commitments, economic relief and the restoration of maritime traffic through one of the world's most strategically important waterways.