US and Iran Near Breakthrough as Tehran Puts Nuclear Program on the Table

The United States and Iran are closing in on a possible turning point in efforts to end the war, with Tehran now open to discussing parts of its nuclear program that it had previously refused to put on the negotiating table, according to a diplomat familiar with the talks.

The diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said Iran is reviewing proposals related to its atomic activities that Qatar, the lead mediator, has circulated. A concession by Iran on nuclear issues would mark a major advance, the person said, after negotiations stalled following the collapse of an interim peace deal reached in June.

Bringing the nuclear file back into the talks is significant because the dispute over Iran’s atomic work has been at the heart of the broader conflict. Washington has long demanded curbs on Tehran’s program, while Iranian officials have resisted linking any settlement to limits on enrichment.

The discussions remain fragile. Both sides have publicly traded accusations in recent weeks, and the diplomat cautioned that no agreement is assured. Even a limited understanding on nuclear matters, however, could create momentum for a wider ceasefire and relief from the sanctions and naval blockade that have battered Iran’s economy.

Qatar has been shuttling between the parties for months, and the latest signals suggest its mediation may be narrowing the gaps. Officials close to the process say the coming days could determine whether the current momentum produces a concrete proposal or dissolves into another round of recriminations.