Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that the removal of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile is a central condition for ending the current war.
Katz emphasised that any remaining highly enriched uranium (HEU) in Iran could allow Tehran to quickly restart its nuclear programme, describing it as a critical lingering threat.
Key Condition for Peace
Speaking in recent statements, Katz made clear that the complete removal or secure neutralisation of Iran’s enriched uranium is seen by Israel as essential for any lasting ceasefire or peace agreement.
This position aligns with broader Israeli demands during the ongoing indirect talks in Islamabad, where the US has also pushed for the removal of Iran’s HEU stockpile as part of a potential deal.
Context of Negotiations
The remarks come as high-stakes trilateral talks continue in Pakistan between Iran, the United States, and Pakistani mediators. The fate of Iran’s enriched uranium remains one of the most contentious issues, with the US demanding its removal from Iranian territory and Iran reportedly offering to downblend the material instead.
Katz’s comments underscore Israel’s firm stance that without addressing the enriched uranium issue, the current fragile two-week ceasefire cannot lead to a sustainable end to the conflict that began on February 28, 2026.