Iran has offered to transfer a portion of its highly enriched uranium stockpile to a third country to facilitate a deal with the U.S.
This proposal marks a significant shift in diplomatic strategy as both nations navigate a volatile security environment in the Persian Gulf. The move comes as Tehran seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and respond to peace proposals from President Donald Trump (R-FL).
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, "Iran is ready to transfer a portion of its highly enriched uranium to a third country as a confidence‑building measure" [2]. The proposal, which also suggests delaying further nuclear talks, was communicated through Pakistan [1]. An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the proposal was later taken to Moscow for further discussion [3].
These diplomatic overtures follow a period of extreme instability. Reports from late April 2026 indicate that a fragile cease-fire had lasted nearly three weeks [1, 4] before the current proposal surfaced. The deal specifically aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, a critical artery for global energy markets.
President Trump has maintained a firm stance on the security of the region. "We will not tolerate any games that threaten the security of the Gulf," Trump said [5]. While some reports suggest the president signaled the possibility of a deal [1], other accounts indicate he pulled U.S. negotiators from the talks and told Tehran to call the U.S. if it truly wanted a deal [5].
Tehran's strategy involves multiple diplomatic channels to break the deadlock. By involving Pakistan and Russia, Iran is attempting to create a multilateral framework to ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and managing its nuclear assets. The proposal to move uranium to a third country is intended to serve as a tangible gesture of good faith to the U.S. administration.
“"Iran is ready to transfer a portion of its highly enriched uranium to a third country as a confidence‑building measure."”
The proposal to move enriched uranium to a third country is a tactical move to lower the immediate risk of military escalation. By linking the nuclear issue to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran is attempting to trade nuclear concessions for the restoration of critical trade routes and the easing of U.S. pressure. The involvement of Russia and Pakistan suggests Iran is seeking external guarantees to ensure any agreement with the Trump administration remains stable.
