NYT Says US Expects Iran to Accept 15-Year Halt to Uranium Enrichment

The US government is expecting meaningful progress in nuclear talks with Iran, according to the New York Times. Markets are closely watching whether the two sides can reach a deal, a key factor in easing geopolitical risk in the Middle East.

The New York Times reported on June 9 that Washington expects Iran to accept a proposal to halt uranium enrichment for the next 15 years.

The proposal would provide sanctions relief and economic incentives in exchange for blocking Iran’s ability to pursue nuclear weapons development over an extended period.

The US and Iran have recently continued negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief and the return of frozen assets. Both sides have signaled that the talks are entering their final stage.

President Donald Trump earlier described the negotiations as being in their “final throes.” Iran has also identified the release of frozen assets as a core issue.

Markets are weighing the prospect that an agreement between the two countries could ease tensions in the Middle East and affect global oil prices and haven-asset prices. At the same time, a breakdown in talks could rekindle military tensions.