Ishaq Dar Says Iran to Reduce Uranium Enrichment Instead of Exporting Stockpiles
ISLAMABAD, June 23, 2026 — Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has said that Iran is expected to reduce the level of its uranium enrichment rather than transfer its enriched uranium stockpiles abroad as part of ongoing negotiations.
Speaking in an interview with Arab media, Dar said the United States had initially demanded that Iran move its enriched uranium reserves out of the country. However, he stated that Tehran’s preferred approach is to lower enrichment levels while retaining the material domestically.
He added that three technical working groups would be established to address key issues, including the nuclear file, frozen Iranian assets, and matters relating to Lebanon.
Discussing maritime arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz, Dar said commercial vessels would be allowed to pass through the strategic waterway for 60 days without any additional tariff charges. Ships would only be required to pay standard navigation or service fees.
The foreign minister also said that U.S. President Donald Trump personally guided and supervised the negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
According to Dar, regional countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and United Arab Emirates are supporting the mediation process aimed at reaching a broader agreement.
He noted that while the next phase of negotiations could be more challenging, a final agreement remains achievable.
“There is no negative point in the deal,” Dar said, expressing optimism that the diplomatic process could ultimately lead to a comprehensive settlement between the parties involved.
