Iran offered to give up enriched uranium before strikes: Report

A dramatic turn of events has put renewed focus on the collapse of diplomacy between the United States and Iran, after reports that a potential nuclear deal was within reach shortly before military action began.

Talks in Geneva showed signs of breakthrough

In late February, high-level talks in Geneva between US and Iranian officials suggested that a deal could be close.

According to reports, Iran had indicated willingness to significantly curb its nuclear programme — including limiting or halting enriched uranium stockpiling under international oversight.

British officials who observed the negotiations reportedly viewed the proposal as credible and a meaningful step toward avoiding conflict.

Enriched uranium at the centre of negotiations

Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium has long been the core issue in negotiations, with estimates suggesting the country possesses hundreds of kilograms enriched close to weapons-grade levels.

Diplomatic proposals reportedly included strict monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and major reductions in enrichment activity — measures aimed at ensuring Iran could not develop nuclear weapons.

Strikes followed collapse of diplomacy

Despite signs of progress, negotiations broke down, and military action followed shortly after.

The United States and Israel launched strikes on key Iranian sites, including nuclear facilities, escalating the conflict and effectively ending diplomatic efforts.

Subsequent attacks in March 2026 targeted additional infrastructure, including energy sites such as the South Pars gas field, further intensifying regional tensions.

Conflicting narratives over threat

The escalation has been accompanied by conflicting claims about Iran’s nuclear intentions.

While US officials cited concerns over a potential nuclear threat, some intelligence assessments suggested Iran had not resumed active efforts toward weaponisation following earlier strikes.

Diplomacy vs escalation

The sequence of events — from apparent diplomatic progress to rapid military escalation — has raised questions among analysts about whether a peaceful resolution was still possible.

Experts say the collapse of talks highlights the fragility of negotiations around nuclear programmes and the risks of miscalculation in high-stakes geopolitical conflicts.

Uncertain path ahead

With diplomacy stalled and conflict escalating, the future of Iran’s nuclear programme — and broader regional stability — remains uncertain.

The developments have also reignited debate over whether the window for a negotiated settlement was missed, and what consequences that may have for global security going forward.