Iran-US nuclear talks are set to continue in Rome on 19 April after initial 12 April discussions in Muscat which were described by both parties as “constructive.” But talks are overshadowed by mixed messaging from US president Trump’s cabinet, with hawkish members pushing for full dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program, rather than a deal that imposes a verifications system similar to the Obama-era 2016 JCPOA.
That deal allowed Tehran to pursue non-weaponized nuclear activities. Iran hiked enrichment to 60% after Mr Trump’s exit from the JCPOA and re-imposition of sanctions in 2018. The US continues to add sanctions on Chinese buyers of Iranian crude (MEES, 18 April). (CONTINUED - 229 WORDS)