Witkoff, Kushner consult with Oak Ridge nuclear experts on Iran - report
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US President Donald Trump special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have consulted with top nuclear experts at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, signaling that high-stakes negotiations with Iran for a potential nuclear deal are in their final, serious stages. The meeting on Thursday, June 4, involved a team of roughly 100 specialists tasked with preparing for the technical intricacies of any future agreement, including verification protocols and the disposal of Iranian nuclear materials. This development comes as Tehran rejected Washington's proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on June 6, presenting a counteroffer via Omani intermediaries, underscoring persistent deep divisions. The consultations unfold against the backdrop of Operation Epic Fury, the recent US-Israel military campaign against Iran that concluded in early May 2026, which saw significant damage to Iranian military infrastructure and leadership. Despite the ceasefire, critical disagreements persist, notably the timeframe for Iran to reduce its uranium enrichment activities—Washington pushing for 60 days against Tehran's demand for 90—and the immediate release of billions in frozen Iranian funds. These contentious points highlight the fragile path toward a comprehensive resolution following a period of intense military conflict, with Oman playing a quiet yet crucial mediation role. The immediate future of a potential nuclear accord hinges on bridging these gaps, particularly given Iran recent counter-proposal prioritizing financial concessions over the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Observers will be closely watching for any signs of a breakthrough in the coming days, as the parties navigate a complex geopolitical landscape where a diplomatic misstep could quickly reignite regional tensions. The preparedness of experts from institutions like Oak Ridge underscores the Trump administration's commitment to ensuring technical compliance should a deal materialize, but the political will to compromise remains the ultimate determinant.