Preliminary U.S.-Iran framework proposes uranium transfer and reopening Hormuz within seven days, Al Arabiya reports

A preliminary framework for renewed U.S.-Iran negotiations proposes that Tehran either transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to an agreed third country or reduce its enrichment level, according to a draft obtained by Al Arabiya English.

The proposal also calls for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen to international shipping within seven days of an initial understanding.

Under the draft, Iranian steps on the nuclear file and maritime security would be matched by clearly defined U.S. measures to ease sanctions, the naval blockade and other economic restrictions.

Neither side would be required to make major concessions without receiving corresponding commitments that could be independently verified.

The framework also proposes an independent verification mechanism before each subsequent phase of implementation, alongside a dispute-resolution process involving mediators and guarantor states to address delays or alleged violations and reduce the risk of renewed military escalation.

China is identified as a possible guarantor of the agreement’s implementation and durability, while direct U.S.-Iran negotiations could take place in Doha rather than Istanbul.

The document has not been announced as an agreed deal by either Washington or Tehran.

Its central elements overlap with proposals already being discussed through Qatari mediation. Reuters reported earlier this week that Qatar had presented Iran with a seven-day sequence of reciprocal confidence-building measures, while Tehran said the ideas were unacceptable in their existing form.

Qatari mediators held more than 12 hours of talks in Tehran on Friday while remaining in contact with the White House, and Axios reported that the discussions would continue in Doha.

The main dispute remains sequencing: Washington wants nuclear concessions to be part of the process from the outset, while Tehran wants the U.S. first to lift its naval blockade, ease restrictions on Iranian oil exports and address other Iranian conditions.