US President Donald Trump has said he would accept a 20-year suspension by Iran of its nuclear programme, in what appears to be confirmation of a shift in position away from a demand for a total end to it. Trump stated it had to be a 'real 20 years.' Previously he has called on Iran to permanently cease enriching uranium—a crucial stage in making a weapon—and to be prevented from ever acquiring nuclear weapons. However, he also mentioned that his patience with Iran was running out amid stagnant negotiations.

Israeli and US forces commenced significant air strikes on Iran on February 28. Despite a ceasefire in place since last month meant to facilitate talks, sporadic exchanges of fire continue. Pakistani mediation efforts have not yielded sufficient progress, as both sides have rejected each other's proposals to end hostilities.

Trump, during his recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasized that Tehran must be restricted from acquiring nuclear capabilities and must reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which currently sits blocked, contributing to rising global oil prices. After a reporter suggested that a 20-year suspension may not be sufficient, Trump reiterated that 20 years 'is enough,' but it must entail genuine guarantees from Iran. This is significant as it marks the first time Trump has explicitly mentioned a 20-year term, following earlier resistance to sunset clauses seen in the 2015 nuclear deal, which he criticized during his presidency.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how both Iran and Israel will react to Trump's nuanced changes in policy.