Trump Administration Pursues New Iran Nuclear Deal, Easing Sanctions Amid Nuclear Ambiguities

The Trump administration is pursuing a new nuclear deal with Iran, potentially easing restrictions compared to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). An emerging 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) promises Iran significant economic benefits: lifting all U.S. and UN sanctions, unfreezing billions in assets, providing $300 billion for reconstruction, and resuming oil exports. Formal negotiations are expected within 60 days. A key concern is the MoU's vague language regarding Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile, stating it must be "properly handled" without specifying disposal. This ambiguity could allow Iran to retain material for multiple nuclear weapons, a point President Trump downplayed as "nuclear dust" at the G7 summit on June 18, 2026. This framework contrasts with the 2015 JCPOA, which strictly limited Iran's low-enriched uranium to 300 kg and mandated inspections. The White House's strategic shift, accepting nuclear uncertainties for regional de-escalation, draws criticism; the IAEA warns of increased proliferation risks due to monitoring disruptions since 2025.