Iran reaffirms right to uranium enrichment amidst US policy shifts

Iran has firmly reiterated its stance on uranium enrichment, stressing that it will not halt its nuclear program under any circumstances, despite fluctuating positions from the United States in ongoing nuclear talks.

During a press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei responded to comments made by US special envoy Steve Witkoff, who suggested that any potential deal between the US and Iran must include a provision for halting uranium enrichment. Baqaei emphasized that such a demand was non-negotiable, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

“The issue of enrichment as part of the natural cycle of Iran’s nuclear industry is by no means negotiable,” Baqaei declared. “Enrichment is not a fantasy. Enrichment is a technology and requirement for making sure that Iran’s nuclear industry will go on uninterruptedly.”

Baqaei made it clear that Iran would never relinquish its right to enrichment, asserting that the country’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful and that Tehran has no intention of halting its nuclear advancements.

According to Baqaei, every time Iran perceives that progress has been made in the negotiations, US negotiators reverse their positions once they return home.

“This flip-flop raises doubts about the US’ seriousness in the talks,” Baqaei said, casting doubt on the reliability of US commitments.

The spokesperson also condemned the recent imposition of additional US sanctions on Iran, describing the actions as “crimes against humanity” and further proof of Washington’s hostility towards the Iranian people. He emphasized that these sanctions contradict the US' professed intentions of seeking a diplomatic solution.

“Every new package of sanctions against Iran amounts to crimes against humanity and proves that the US feels hostility toward Iranians. One should not trust their (US’) claim of being serious in diplomacy,” Baqaei added.

Despite these challenges, Baqaei reiterated Iran’s commitment to diplomacy, asserting that the country’s nuclear program remains transparent and peaceful. He further stated that while the continuation of US sanctions would not affect Iran’s resolve, it only raised questions about the sincerity of the US’ diplomatic efforts.

Since April 12, Iran and the US have held four rounds of talks, mediated by Oman, aimed at reaching a deal regarding Iran’s nuclear program and the removal of US sanctions. However, as tensions remain, the future of the negotiations appears uncertain.

By Vafa Guliyeva