21 May 2026

Can Trump Get a New Nuclear Deal With Iran? Washington Has More Demands—and Tehran Has More Leverage

Foreign Affairs  |  Swanson, Sharp
The United States' ongoing conflict with Iran has seen President Trump struggle to define clear objectives, frequently emphasizing the need to roll back Tehran's nuclear program despite its advancements since the 2018 JCPOA withdrawal. Iran has significantly improved its centrifuge technology and installation speed, reducing its nuclear breakout time to approximately six months, even after U.S.-Israeli strikes. Critical gaps in international inspectors' knowledge persist regarding potential covert facilities and weaponization activities, exacerbated by Iran halting IAEA cooperation following the assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. A new nuclear deal, therefore, must extend beyond merely addressing uranium enrichment and stockpiles. It requires renewed implementation of the Additional Protocol, comprehensive accounting of centrifuges produced since 2021, and verifiable information on non-nuclear research with potential weapons applications, including access to military sites. While a robust nuclear agreement is essential, it remains insufficient to address Iran's broader strategic threats, such as its missile program and control over the Strait of Hormuz, necessitating a comprehensive approach.

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