President Donald Trump now says a 20-year suspension of Iran's nuclear program is acceptable, marking a notable shift from his previous demand for a permanent end to uranium enrichment.
Speaking aboard Air Force One after talks in Beijing, Trump insisted any deal must be a "real 20 years." He added, however, that his patience is running out with no breakthrough in negotiations.
The U.S. and Israel launched massive airstrikes on Iran on February 28. A fragile ceasefire, meant to enable talks, has largely held despite sporadic exchanges.
Pakistan is mediating. Tehran's latest proposal demands an immediate end to hostilities, including Israeli attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon, lifting the U.S. naval blockade, and guarantees against future strikes.
Trump said both sides agree Iran must not develop a nuclear weapon and must reopen the Strait of Hormuz, whose blockade has driven up global oil prices.
Vice President JD Vance had previously pushed for a 20-year minimum in talks. This is the first time Trump himself has publicly embraced that timeframe.
Israel has not yet responded. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted Iran's enriched uranium stockpile must be "taken out" before any end to the conflict.