Iran Rejects Uranium Enrichment Freeze in Nuclear Talks With US

Iran has firmly rejected any suspension of its uranium enrichment program as part of ongoing nuclear negotiations with the United States, Al Jazeera reports.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei dismissed recent speculation about a potential three-year enrichment freeze as “totally false” during a press briefing on Monday.

The statement comes after a fifth round of Oman-mediated talks between Iranian and U.S. negotiators in Rome last Friday. While both sides have described the discussions as productive, significant gaps remain. Washington maintains its opposition to any Iranian uranium enrichment, while Tehran has refused to accept such preconditions.

“We will never accept the suspension of our enrichment activities,” Baghaei stated, emphasizing that Iran is awaiting details from Oman regarding arrangements for a sixth round of negotiations. The talks aim to explore potential adjustments to Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reinforced this hardline position, asserting that Tehran is prepared to walk away from negotiations if necessary.

“We won’t starve if they refuse to negotiate or impose sanctions,” he told state media. “We’ll find ways to survive.”

The diplomatic stalemate persists despite cautiously optimistic remarks from both sides. U.S. President Donald Trump described recent talks as “very, very good” and hinted at possible progress, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged “signs of progress” after the latest meeting.

Baghaei ruled out any interim agreement, warning that discussions would fail if aimed at restricting Iran’s nuclear rights.

“If the Americans show goodwill, we’re optimistic,” he said. “But talks meant to curb our rights will go nowhere.”