Trump Claims Iran Has Agreed to Hand Over Enriched Uranium

JAKARTA - US President Donald Trump on Thursday claimed Iran had agreed to hand over enriched uranium supplies and the two sides were "almost" reaching a peace deal to end the war that has hit the Middle East.

The US has previously threatened to resume air strikes against Iran and maintain a naval blockade of its ports if Tehran refuses to accept a deal to resolve the conflict that erupted on February 28.

President Trump told reporters, "there is a very good chance we will make a deal" with Tehran, adding he would consider going to Pakistan to sign the agreement.

"They have agreed to return the nuclear dust to us," he said, citing Al Arabiya from AFP (17/4), regarding the supply of enriched uranium that the United States believes can be used to build nuclear weapons.

President Trump has insisted any deal with Iran must permanently bar the Mullah's State from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Washington is reported to have asked for a 20-year suspension of Iran's uranium enrichment program. Meanwhile, Tehran has proposed a five-year suspension of nuclear activities - an offer rejected by US officials.

Tehran insists its nuclear program is for civilian purposes. Iran's Foreign Ministry on Wednesday said Iran's right to enrich uranium is "undeniable" but the level of enrichment "can be negotiated."