The United States has reportedly agreed to waive Iran's oil sanctions during the ongoing nuclear negotiations, according to claims made by Iranian media on Monday, 18 May, citing unnamed sources. The development, if confirmed, would mark a significant — if temporary — concession from Washington as both sides continue exchanging draft texts through intermediaries.

What the Reported Waiver Involves

According to Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency, the proposed waiver pertains specifically to OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) sanctions and would remain in place only until a final agreement is reached. Tehran, however, is reportedly pushing for something more permanent — insisting on the complete removal of all sanctions against the country as a non-negotiable condition of any deal. The distinction between a temporary waiver and a full sanctions rollback remains a central sticking point in the talks.

The 14-Point Text Exchange

Iran has submitted a revised 14-point text to the US through Pakistani mediators, after amending an earlier version. The US had previously sent a response to Iran's first 14-point document. According to Tasnim, Iran's latest submission focuses on 'negotiations to end the war and confidence-building measures by the American side.' The use of a Pakistani intermediary underscores the indirect and carefully choreographed nature of the current diplomatic process.

Tehran Pushes Back on Enrichment Demands

Separately, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei on Monday firmly rejected remarks by US President Donald Trump regarding a proposed 20-year suspension of Iran's uranium enrichment activities. Baqaei stated that Tehran's right to enrichment is 'non-negotiable' under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and does not require validation from any external party. He added that negotiations with the US are continuing and that Iran will 'firmly uphold its principled positions at every stage of the process.'

Iran Signals Military Readiness

Baqaei also issued a pointed warning, stating that Iran is 'fully prepared for any scenario' and will defend itself with full strength against any 'reckless action.' He claimed the Iranian Armed Forces would have 'surprises' in store. The spokesperson acknowledged that Washington uses economic pressure as a tool but argued that 'threats and pressure cannot deter Iran' from pursuing what it describes as the rights of its people. This comes amid a broader pattern of escalatory rhetoric interspersed with diplomatic engagement that has characterised Iran-US relations for years.

What Happens Next

The back-and-forth exchange of position papers suggests the talks remain in a preliminary phase, with neither side publicly confirming the terms the other has proposed. The reported OFAC waiver claim originates entirely from Iranian state-linked media and has not been independently verified or confirmed by US officials. Analysts will be watching for any Washington response to the latest 14-point submission, as well as whether the reported sanctions waiver translates into a formal, verifiable commitment.