US explores $30 billion civilian nuclear deal to restart talks with Iran, CNN reports

The Trump administration is considering a major offer to Iran, including up to $30 billion in investments to support a civilian nuclear energy programme, easing some sanctions, and providing access to frozen Iranian funds.

These proposals aim to encourage Tehran to return to nuclear negotiations, according to CNN, citing sources familiar with the discussions.

Behind-the-scenes talks between US officials, regional partners, and Iranian representatives have continued despite recent military activity between Iran and Israel. The sources say diplomatic efforts have persisted following a ceasefire agreement reached this week.

A confidential meeting at The White House last Friday involved US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Gulf partners discussing plans to invest in Iran’s nuclear energy sector, focused on peaceful, non-enrichment activities. Although the funds would likely come from Gulf allies rather than the US directly, Washington is leading the diplomatic push.

One official told CNN that the US maintains a firm condition: Iran must not enrich uranium domestically. Instead, Iran could import enriched uranium for peaceful use, similar to arrangements in other countries.

Other incentives under discussion include partial sanctions relief and access to approximately $6 billion in Iranian funds currently held in foreign banks. There are also proposals for Gulf countries to help replace the Fordow nuclear facility, which was recently damaged in military strikes.

While the details are evolving and the outcome remains uncertain, officials say talks are ongoing through intermediaries, primarily Qatar, which also helped broker the ceasefire between Iran and Israel.

President Donald Trump confirmed this week that discussions with Iran could resume soon but noted uncertainty over the outcome. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any deal would depend on Iran’s willingness to negotiate directly with the US.

This diplomatic effort follows several rounds of previous talks that were disrupted by recent regional tensions and military actions. Satellite images show damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities, and Tehran has recently passed legislation limiting cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Despite challenges, US officials say they are hopeful the renewed dialogue will lead to a peaceful agreement.

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