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Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has responded to a US proposal regarding Tehran’s nuclear program, criticizing the Trump administration as “rude” and “thoughtless.”
In his first public remarks since the US submitted a proposal over the weekend, claiming it to be “detailed and acceptable,” Iran’s top decision-maker reiterated that the Islamic republic would not cease enriching uranium.
“The impolite and rude leaders of the US say this [that Iran should not have a nuclear industry],” Khamenei stated during a speech on Wednesday. He further emphasized, “Our response to the loud and reckless nonsense of a thoughtless US administration is clear,” directed not only at the US but also at Israel’s stance on Iran’s nuclear activities. Khamenei firmly stated, “The current US and Zionist leaders should know they cannot do a damn thing about this.”
Enrichment, a process that can yield both nuclear fuel and weapons-grade material, lies at the core of the discussions between the US and Iran. President Donald Trump has continuously pushed for the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program.
Recent reports suggest that the US has proposed allowing Iran to continue low-level uranium enrichment under an interim deal before eventually halting it. Additionally, there have been talks of establishing a consortium, involving the US and regional nations, to develop new facilities for low-level uranium enrichment, although the exact locations remain unspecified.
Despite these discussions, Trump reiterated his stance this week, insisting on Iran’s total nuclear program dismantlement, arguing that it is crucial to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Iran’s leaders have maintained that halting enrichment within the country is a non-negotiable red line, asserting that their nuclear program is intended for civilian purposes and that Iran has the right to enrich uranium as a signatory to the non-proliferation treaty.
The ongoing talks between the US and Iran, facilitated by Oman, have faced challenges due to conflicting messages and historical animosity between the two nations. Trump’s decision to reimpose sanctions on Iran as part of his “maximum pressure” campaign has further complicated the negotiations.
In response, Iran has escalated uranium enrichment, prompting concerns from the International Atomic Energy Agency, which noted a significant increase in Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons grade since February.
Despite the tensions, Iran remains committed to diplomatic dialogue and hopes that regional powers like Saudi Arabia can help avert military escalation. A senior Iranian official expressed hope for the sixth round of talks, emphasizing Iran’s consistency on uranium enrichment.
The idea of a consortium, previously discussed but never implemented due to Iran’s insistence on domestic facility control, could offer a potential resolution. Such a consortium aims to satisfy Iran’s civilian needs while allowing the US to claim the dismantling of critical uranium infrastructure.
Khamenei emphasized the importance of nuclear technology for various industries beyond energy, including medical, pharmaceutical, aerospace, agricultural, environmental, and engineering sectors.
As Iran and the US navigate the complexities of their nuclear negotiations, the international community watches closely for potential breakthroughs or further escalations.
Additional reporting by Henry Foy in Brussels
