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Iran and U.S. Lock Horns Over Uranium Enrichment in Nuclear Talks

As both nations prepare for a new round of negotiations, Iran vows to continue enrichment while the U.S. insists on its complete cessation.

In this photo released by an official website of the office of the Iranian supreme leader, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks during a meeting with teachers, in Tehran, Iran, Saturday, May 17, 2025.
U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff (left) and Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. (Photos by Evelyn Hockstein and Amer Hilabi/AFP/Getty Images)
U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff looks on during his swearing-in ceremony of in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 6, 2025. REUTERS/Kent Nishimura/File Photo

Overview

  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed that uranium enrichment will persist regardless of whether a deal is reached, citing it as a non-negotiable right under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
  • U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reiterated the Trump administration's 'red line,' demanding a complete halt to all uranium enrichment activities in any potential agreement with Iran.
  • The two sides have completed four rounds of indirect, Oman-mediated talks, with the next round expected to be scheduled in Europe soon, though the core issue of enrichment remains unresolved.
  • Iran's uranium enrichment currently reaches 60%, far exceeding the 3.67% limit set by the 2015 nuclear deal, but below weapons-grade levels, which has raised international concerns.
  • Both nations have issued public statements doubling down on their respective positions, with Iran emphasizing its peaceful intentions and the U.S. warning of potential consequences if no agreement is reached.