Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed Sunday that the country will continue its uranium enrichment efforts regardless of the outcome of nuclear deal negotiations with the United States.
The statement, posted on social media, underscores Tehran’s unwavering stance on its nuclear program and highlights internal skepticism about U.S. intentions.
Araghchi emphasized that while Iran is open to serious discussions, the core of its nuclear program—uranium enrichment—remains non-negotiable. “Enrichment in Iran will continue with or without a deal,” he declared.
The foreign minister framed the enrichment process as a “hard-earned and homegrown scientific achievement,” crediting years of sacrifice and national effort for its advancement.
Commenting on the ongoing negotiations, Araghchi pointed to a disconnect between public and private messaging from U.S. officials.
He criticized what he described as Washington’s inconsistent positions, driven by internal political considerations and pressures from special interest groups.
“Iran can only control what we Iranians do,” he noted, explaining that Tehran will avoid public negotiations and remain focused on protecting its nuclear rights under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
The minister’s remarks come shortly after former President Donald Trump revealed that the U.S. had presented a new nuclear deal proposal to Tehran.
Trump warned that Iranian leaders must act quickly or face consequences, noting that multiple rounds of indirect talks have already taken place, primarily in Oman.
Further heightening tensions, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently reported a substantial increase in Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium—rising from 182 kilograms to 275 kilograms (approximately 401 to 606 pounds) in early 2025.
This development has alarmed international observers due to the material’s proximity to weapons-grade enrichment.
Senator Marco Rubio expressed concern over the report, stating on Fox News that Iran is now effectively at the nuclear threshold. “They are at the threshold of a nuclear weapon.
If they stockpile enough of that 60% enriched uranium, they could very quickly turn it into 90% and weaponize it,” he warned.
Adding to the complexity, Trump recently remarked from the United Arab Emirates that a tentative agreement has been reached. “Iran has sort of agreed to the terms,” he said. “We’re not going to be making any nuclear dust in Iran.”
As diplomatic talks continue, Iran’s message remains clear: enrichment is not a bargaining chip, and any future deal must recognize its sovereign right to nuclear development for peaceful purposes.
