Iran Rejects Uranium Enrichment Freeze Amid U.S. Nuclear Deal Talks

Iran has firmly ruled out freezing its uranium enrichment program as part of negotiations with the United States to revive a nuclear agreement, a move that underscores ongoing tensions in the decades-long nuclear standoff. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei rejected reports suggesting Iran would consider halting enrichment for three years to reach a deal, stating, “Iran will never accept that.”

Baghaei also dismissed the possibility of an interim or provisional nuclear agreement, calling recent media speculation “unfounded.” Talks between Tehran and Washington aim to resolve disputes surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions, but both parties remain entrenched in their positions, especially over the sensitive issue of uranium enrichment.

The spokesperson confirmed that no date has been set for a sixth round of negotiations and noted that Iran is waiting for further details from mediator Oman regarding the timing. He added that progress depends on the intentions of the U.S., saying, “If there is goodwill from the American side, we are also optimistic, but if talks are aimed at curbing Iran’s rights, then talks will get nowhere.”

Over the weekend, U.S. President Donald Trump remarked that discussions with the Iranian delegation had been “very good,” though no breakthrough has been publicly announced.

The stakes are high. The U.S. seeks to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities, aiming to prevent a potential nuclear arms race in the region and safeguard allies like Israel. Iran, on the other hand, insists its nuclear program is strictly for civilian purposes and seeks relief from U.S. sanctions that have severely impacted its oil-dependent economy.

The path forward remains uncertain as geopolitical tensions and mistrust continue to hinder diplomatic progress.