US Demands Iran To Hand Over Stockpiles Of Enriched Uranium Amid Peace Talks

Last Updated:April 23, 2026, 01:53 IST

White House demands Iran hand over enriched uranium in nuclear talks, marking tougher US stance as Tehran skips new negotiations amid regional tensions and ceasefire strains.

The White House on Tuesday said Iran would be required to hand over its enriched uranium as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving tensions over its nuclear programme.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the demand is a key component of discussions between the United States and Iran, signalling a tougher stance from Washington.

The issue of enriched uranium remains central to the talks, with Iran currently estimated to possess nearly 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium, including around 440–450 kg enriched up to 60% purity, a level close to weapons-grade if further processed.

In addition, Iran holds stockpiles at lower enrichment levels, including uranium enriched to 20% and below, according to international nuclear watchdog estimates.

The statement comes amid efforts to reach a broader agreement following weeks of heightened tensions and conflict in the region. Washington and its allies have long insisted that Iran curb or surrender such stockpiles, arguing they could potentially be used for weapons development.

Tehran, however, maintains that its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes and has historically resisted calls to fully relinquish its enriched uranium reserves.

From JCPOA Limits To Fresh US Demands

The demand also marks a shift from the framework of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), under which Iran had agreed to cap uranium enrichment at 3.67% and limit its stockpile to around 300 kilograms in exchange for sanctions relief.

However, the United States withdrew from the deal in 2018 under then-President Donald Trump, after which Iran gradually scaled back its commitments and increased enrichment levels significantly.

Talks Unfold Amid Ceasefire Tensions

The nuclear negotiations are unfolding alongside heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, including a fragile ceasefire, a continued US naval blockade, and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic efforts have also faced setbacks, with Iran refusing to participate in a fresh round of talks in Islamabad, where US Vice President JD Vance was expected to lead negotiations. The earlier round of high-level talks in Islamabad had already ended without a deal after Tehran rejected key US terms, particularly around its nuclear programme and sanctions.

More recently, plans for renewed discussions were thrown into doubt after Iran signalled it would not attend, citing US actions such as the naval blockade as violations of the ceasefire.

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