Why it matters:
Following the new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States, Iran has reaffirmed that it will not accept Washington’s previous demand to halt uranium enrichment.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s firm statements signals that Iran will not compromise on its nuclear achievements, a stance that could influence the course of future talks and shape expectations on the other side. This position underscores Iran’s red lines in nuclear policy and sends a clear message about the country’s scientific independence and national security.
The big picture:
Iran–U.S. nuclear talks have repeatedly been undermined by breaches of trust. The 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA), endorsed by the UN, collapsed after the United States unilaterally withdrew in 2018 and reimposed sanctions. The pattern resurfaced in June 2025, when negotiations were ongoing and Israel launched attacks on Iran, later confirmed to have U.S. backing by the American president, further deepening doubts over Washington’s reliability in nuclear diplomacy. This experience shapes Iran’s current approach, reinforcing its determination to defend its nuclear achievements and national sovereignty.
What he's saying:
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated in a press conference following the National Foreign Policy Congress that the opposing side’s insistence on “zero enrichment” is completely unacceptable, and Iran has firmly upheld its positions. He emphasized that enrichment technology is a significant national scientific achievement developed by Iranian scientists, and the Iranian people deserve to benefit from it.
Araghchi also noted that Iran’s nuclear scientists were targeted and assassinated for this achievement, and over a thousand Iranians were martyred during the 12-day war defending it. He stressed that the Iranian people’s right to peaceful nuclear energy, including enrichment, is non-negotiable.
Go deeper:
Araghchi: Iran’s insistence on enrichment tied to independence and national rights
Araghchi Says Zero Enrichment “Non-Negotiable” in U.S. Talks
F.abedi - ahmad shirzadian
