Iran open to mediator proposal, awaits US steps to build trust

Iran has expressed openness to resuming negotiations with the United States, with an Iranian source confirming that Tehran is responding positively to the latest proposal put forward by mediators. However, the source said Iran is waiting for reciprocal practical steps from Washington to build trust between the two sides and ensure its legitimate demands are met.

Speaking to Al Arabiya and Al Hadath channels on Friday, the source emphasized that confidence-building measures cannot be one-sided, stressing that while Iran does not fear threats, it remains committed to regional stability.

Regarding the negotiation process, the source denied any restrictions on Iranian parliament speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, confirming he has full freedom to manage the talks.

Iranian proposal via Qatar and seven demands from Washington

These developments follow a senior Iranian official's statement on Thursday that Iran had sent a nuclear proposal to the United States through Qatar. However, the official clarified that discussions on the proposal would not begin until Washington meets seven Iranian demands.

Iran's demands include lifting US sanctions, releasing frozen assets abroad, ending the blockade on Iranian ports, halting hostilities on all fronts, securing compensation for the war, and withdrawing US military reinforcements from around Iran.

Meanwhile, informed officials revealed that Tehran is reviewing proposals from mediators regarding its nuclear program. They noted that Iran's willingness to consider these proposals signals progress in Qatar-led mediation efforts, although no final Iranian decision has been made, according to The New York Times on Thursday.

Highly enriched uranium at the heart of the dispute

On nuclear concessions, reports indicate the US proposal includes a request for Iran to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Iranian officials have previously rejected moving this material to a third country for processing.

In return, US President Donald Trump is insisting on Iranian concessions on the nuclear issue, as well as reopening the Strait of Hormuz to global shipping.

These moves come as mediators intensify efforts to reach a deal to end the conflict between Iran and the United States.