European allies fear US-Iran deal talks could produce a quick political framework that appears to be progress but leaves the hardest disputes unresolved. Several diplomats worry Washington may push for a fast, headline-grabbing agreement that creates deeper problems later.
Those concerns centre on the technical complexity of Iran’s nuclear file, sanctions relief, and long-term enforcement. European officials reportedly believe that without a detailed follow-up, a rushed deal could become fragile and difficult to sustain politically.
Diplomats from France, Britain, and Germany believe they have been sidelined from the latest round of talks. These countries played a central role in negotiations that led to the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
Now, they fear the current US team may try to separate a broad agreement in principle from the detailed technical work that must follow. Diplomats quoted in the report warned that every clause in a nuclear deal can open the door to multiple new disputes.
Uranium Enrichment and Verification Remain Major Obstacles
One of the biggest sticking points is Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60%. Diplomats discussed options such as downblending the material inside Iran under International Atomic Energy Agency supervision or sending some of it abroad.
However, even those options would require lengthy negotiations over verification, transport, and the recovery of material that may have been buried by airstrikes. The report also notes a deeper disagreement over whether Iran should be allowed to enrich uranium at all.
The economic side of the talks is also proving difficult. Iran wants access to limited frozen funds in the short term, while broader sanctions relief would likely require European support over time.
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At the same time, Tehran is reportedly seeking non-aggression guarantees after earlier attacks by the United States and Israel. Gulf states, meanwhile, want Iran’s missile programme and proxy activities included, while Israel continues to push for much tougher limits.
Although European officials admit they have partly sidelined themselves, they argue their experience remains important. The 2015 talks involved roughly 200 diplomats, financial specialists, and nuclear experts, highlighting the technical depth required for any lasting agreement.
