Iran Counters Trump's 20-Year Enrichment Offer With 5-Year Suspension Proposal; US-Iran 'Closing In on Framework' for Permanent Deal — War Day 79

As the US-Iran war entered Day 79 on May 18, 2026, diplomatic developments accelerated toward a potential nuclear framework. Iran formally countered Trump's offer of a 20-year uranium enrichment suspension (announced May 15 on Air Force One) with a counter-proposal of a 5-year suspension — a significant gap but confirmation that Iran is engaging with the structure of Trump's proposal rather than rejecting it. US and Iranian officials confirmed to the Times of Israel that both sides are 'closing in on a framework for a permanent deal,' with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) being negotiated that would include: an enrichment moratorium, shipment of highly-enriched uranium stockpiles out of Iran, and in exchange Washington lifting some sanctions. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran is in 'doubt about their seriousness' but remained engaged. The gap between a 20-year and 5-year moratorium represents the central negotiating hurdle. The US naval blockade of Iranian ports continued with approximately 41 tankers and 69 million barrels blocked. Brent crude remains approximately $107 per barrel. Pakistan and Qatar remain the primary mediation channels. The Arms Control Association reported Trump dismissed using nuclear arms against Iran despite the stalled talks.