TEHRAN: Iran has firmly rejected a key condition set by the United States in nuclear negotiations, refusing to halt uranium enrichment completely. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the statement during a press conference, warning that Tehran will not agree to any deal unless Washington changes its stance.
“If enrichment drops to zero, Iran will have nothing left to negotiate with,” Araghchi said. He emphasized that uranium enrichment is a national right and forms the backbone of Iran’s nuclear program. This statement marks a hardening of Tehran’s position amid growing international pressure.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, the two sides remain far apart. The United States continues to demand that Iran abandon its nuclear capabilities, a demand Iran sees as unfair and harmful. Araghchi stated that such expectations are “unreasonable and self-defeating,” especially as they ignore Iran’s strategic and scientific interests.
Meanwhile, Iran has reached a new cooperation agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This move aims to increase transparency while protecting Iran’s sovereignty. Araghchi highlighted that the new mechanism shows Iran’s willingness to work with international bodies without giving up its rights.
Iran insists it still has full technical ability to enrich uranium. Officials say that no amount of external pressure will force the country to surrender this capability. The government maintains that enrichment serves peaceful purposes and is necessary for energy, medicine, and research.
As talks hit a deadlock, global powers watch closely. Many analysts fear that without compromise, tensions could rise again in the region. However, Iran remains clear that respect and mutual understanding are essential for any future agreement to succeed.