Islamabad, June 28, 2025: US President Donald Trump dismissed media reports that said his administration had discussed possibly helping Iran access as much as $30 billion to build a civilian-energy-producing nuclear program, along with lifting select sanctions and releasing billions in frozen assets as part of a renewed effort to draw Tehran back into negotiations.
In a report by CNN, it was claimed that behind closed doors, US officials and Middle Eastern allies have held indirect discussions with Iran despite recent military confrontations involving Israel and Iran. Talks have persisted following a ceasefire agreement finalized earlier this week.
Although several plans remain in early stages, one condition remains unchanged: Iran must cease all uranium enrichment. Still, a draft proposal shared by two sources outlines a major investment in a non-enrichment nuclear initiative. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff met with Gulf allies at the White House last Friday to refine some of these proposals.
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The discussed plan includes foreign investment—primarily from Arab nations — in building Iran’s nuclear energy infrastructure. The US would lead the diplomatic process but will not provide funding itself. Proposals also include unlocking $6 billion of Iran’s overseas-held assets and potentially replacing the Fordow facility, damaged by recent US strikes, with a civilian-only plant funded by US-aligned Gulf nations.
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The US has indicated Iran could pursue nuclear energy program for peaceful use by importing enriched uranium, similar to the UAE model. However, Iran’s parliament recently moved to restrict cooperation with international nuclear monitors, raising concerns about transparency.
While Trump downplayed the necessity of an agreement publicly, his advisers continue to push for a long-term framework to secure the fragile ceasefire. Qatar remains a central mediator. Though no date has been finalized for new talks, officials believe conditions might now favor a return to the table.
