US demanded 20-year halt to Iran uranium enrichment

President Trump abruptly paused Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday night, citing progress in nuclear talks. Now the Iranians are reviewing a U.S. framework, which if accepted would lead to 30-day negotiations on a detailed agreement. From our discussions with senior officials, here’s where U.S. red lines stand in the talks:

The U.S. says it needs Iran’s attestation that it doesn’t seek nuclear weapons; the dismantlement of the Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan facilities; a ban on underground nuclear work; and on-demand inspections with penalties for violations. The U.S. seeks a 20-year moratorium on Iranian nuclear enrichment and demands the handover of all enriched nuclear material.

Iran would have to reopen Hormuz—gradually, as the U.S. relaxes its blockade, and then fully with the final deal. Most U.S. sanctions relief would be tied to Iran’s performance of the deal, not merely its signing, though some assets could be unfrozen to begin.