A recent meeting between American and Iranian delegations has sparked hope for a new Iran nuclear deal. President Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss a potential agreement. However, the question remains: what is there to discuss?
The two extremes are clear: either dismantle Iran’s entire nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief or take military action to destroy it. Both options are daunting and could motivate Iran to build nuclear weapons.
But is there a middle path? Iran wants uranium enrichment capacity to fuel its civilian nuclear power plants, while the US has stated its red line: no nuclear bomb. Steve Witkoff has hinted at openness to a middle ground, with verification as key.
Research suggests that timely verification of illicit activity is crucial. Robotic neutron detectors and secure cameras can detect highly-enriched uranium production immediately. This technology could complement existing inspection systems and make the IAEA’s job less resource-intensive.
A new deal should reinstate essential verification provisions, including monitoring supply chains for uranium and centrifuge parts. The US would gain assurance that Iran cannot produce nuclear bomb material without detection. Meanwhile, Iran would get to maintain its peaceful nuclear energy program with low-enriched uranium and enrichment capacity as needed.
This middle path could be a model for other countries seeking to expand nuclear power without risking nuclear proliferation. By expanding verification measures, we can ensure the world’s safety while promoting peaceful nuclear energy.
Source: https://thebulletin.org/2025/05/a-new-iran-nuclear-deal-without-sunset