President Donald Trump’s negotiators are attempting to convince him of the merits of a “cash for uranium” deal, despite his previous rejection. The US would release $20 billion in frozen funds in exchange for Iran handing over its highly enriched uranium stockpile.

The current framework, which includes a moratorium on further uranium enrichment and sanctions relief, is largely similar to what was discussed during Trump’s trip to Islamabad last month. However, the deal faces challenges as Trump has repeatedly stated his opposition to sending money to Iran. Some of his advisers believe he may ultimately accept it due to its perceived superiority over the Obama-era deal.

Notably, key players like Marco Rubio have been absent from the process, with Rubio focusing on Cuba and Venezuela instead. Vice President JD Vance, who was initially tasked with back-channeling with Iran, now finds himself sidelined as negotiations stall. His focus has shifted to campaigning during the midterm elections.