U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that a "meaningful" reduction in Iran's uranium enrichment capabilities is a prerequisite for reaching a ceasefire agreement with the United States.
In an interview with Reuters on October 6, Vance questioned, "If they don't want nuclear weapons, why do they need 60% enriched fuel?" He added, "If they want to show they won't make nuclear weapons, they shouldn't produce highly enriched fuel. That is the most basic condition." He emphasized that Iran must take significant steps regarding its enrichment capabilities to demonstrate its commitment to not pursuing nuclear weapons.
Iran is estimated to possess around 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, a level that can be converted to the 90% enrichment needed for nuclear weapons, raising concerns about its potential nuclear capabilities. Former President Donald Trump has consistently called for the dismantling of Iran's nuclear development program since ordering airstrikes against the country in February.
In related remarks, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during a visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly two weeks ago, stated in interviews with U.S. media that Iran has no plans to develop nuclear weapons and is considering allowing inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) through negotiations with the U.S. Last week, Bloomberg reported that Iran proposed IAEA inspections in exchange for easing U.S. economic sanctions.
However, Trump is said to have rejected this proposal, leaving U.S.-Iran negotiations at an impasse. Furthermore, Trump has threatened to resume military action against Iran following the midterm elections.
Uncertainty Over Iran's Final Decision-Maker
Vance pointed out that a complicating factor in U.S.-Iran negotiations is the uncertainty surrounding Iran's final decision-maker. While the U.S. delegation is negotiating with moderate figures like President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the influence of hardliners represented by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) raises questions about the role of moderates within Iran's power structure.
Additionally, following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei due to U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in February, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has not made public appearances, creating uncertainty about the leadership and decision-making structure in Iran.
Vance noted, "One thing we have identified is that how decisions are made in that country (Iran) is overall unclear." Trump echoed this sentiment, stating that his "biggest problem" is that no one knows who is in charge of Iran.
In response, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei countered that the complexity lies with the U.S. He stated at a weekly press conference, "The issue is quite the opposite," pointing to conflicting positions and mixed messages from U.S. officials as the real problem.
Meanwhile, Vance addressed concerns regarding the significant costs and depletion of weapons as the war in Iran enters its eighth month, stating he has spoken with some field commanders to alleviate worries. He urged that criticism of Trump's handling of the Iran war should not hinder Republican victories in the upcoming midterm elections. Trump remarked the previous day during a speech in Nebraska that rising prices due to the Iran war are a "small price to pay" for ensuring safety, adding, "They could destroy a city. Let them destroy LA. Let them destroy San Diego."
Vance also deflected questions about a potential run for the 2028 presidential election, stating, "I haven't thought much about it yet."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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