JD Vance Says Iran Must Cut Nuclear Enrichment to End War

U.S. Vice President JD Vance said Iran must significantly reduce its nuclear enrichment capacity to meet Washington’s conditions for ending the seven-month war, putting Tehran’s nuclear program at the center of efforts to reach a diplomatic settlement.

Speaking in an exclusive Reuters interview on Monday, Vance said the United States wants Iran to take concrete steps to scale back enrichment rather than simply provide assurances about future reductions.

“If you don’t want a nuclear weapon, then why do you need 60% enriched fuel?” Vance said. He argued that Tehran could demonstrate it has no intention of developing a nuclear weapon by meaningfully reducing its ability to produce highly enriched uranium.

The comments underscore a key obstacle in negotiations between Washington and Tehran as both sides explore proposals aimed at ending the conflict. The talks also seek to secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for global oil and energy supplies.

Iran and the U.S. have exchanged proposals in recent weeks, but major differences remain. President Donald Trump rejected Tehran’s latest offer and warned that U.S. military operations could intensify after the November midterm elections if no acceptable agreement is reached.

Despite the tensions, Vance said Washington remains willing to negotiate. However, any settlement would require tangible action from Iran on its nuclear enrichment program rather than promises of future compliance.

Vance also acknowledged uncertainty within the U.S. government over Iran’s decision-making structure. Washington has held discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, but Vance said U.S. officials are still unsure who ultimately has the authority to approve a final agreement in Tehran.

The dispute over uranium enrichment remains a major barrier to ending the Iran-U.S. war. Vance’s remarks indicate that Washington views a verifiable reduction in Iran’s enrichment capacity as a fundamental requirement for a broader peace agreement and any potential easing of hostilities.