Iran not to dismantle uranium enrichment facilities: Foreign Minister

IANS May 16, 2025 193 views

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi declared that none of Iran's uranium enrichment facilities would be dismantled. His statement emphasized Iran's firm stance on nuclear rights during ongoing Oman-mediated indirect talks with the US. Araghchi mentioned Iran's willingness to provide transparency to build trust, aiming for sanctions relief. The negotiations reflect both countries' cautious approach toward a potential agreement, with enrichment remaining a pivotal issue.

"None of our enrichment facilities will be dismantled, and this is our principled position." - Seyed Abbas Araghchi
Tehran, May 16: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has stressed that none of the country's uranium enrichment facilities would be dismantled, media reported.

Key Points

1

Iranian FM cites unwavering stance on uranium enrichment

2

Calls for sanctions relief in exchange for trust-building

3

Highlights ongoing negotiations with US in Oman

He made the remarks on Thursday during a visit to the 36th Tehran International Book Fair in the Iranian capital, where he elaborated on Iran's positions in the ongoing Oman-mediated indirect nuclear talks with the US.

"We may be building trust and offering transparency regarding the nuclear issue, but we will not forgo our (uranium) enrichment. None of our enrichment facilities will be dismantled, and this is our principled position," Araghchi said.

He stressed that in addition to upholding its nuclear rights, Iran sought sanctions relief through indirect negotiations with the US, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We are ready to build trust and offer transparency to the other side in return for the sanctions' removal," the Minister said.

Araghchi underscored that defending the Iranian people's nuclear rights, including uranium enrichment, was among the country's principles and fundamental positions in the negotiations.

His remarks came as Iranian and US delegations on Sunday held the fourth round of indirect talks on Tehran's nuclear program and the removal of Washington's sanctions in the Omani capital Muscat.

"I think we're getting close to maybe doing a deal without having to do this," Trump said, referring to military action against Iran.

He made the comments on Thursday in Qatar, the second leg of his Gulf tour.

"You probably read the story that Iran has sort of agreed to the terms," he said.

Trump has repeatedly said Iran cannot be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon.

While Iran has always denied that it is seeking to do so, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN's nuclear watchdog, said that it has enriched enough uranium close to weapons-grade quality to make six nuclear bombs.

The US and Iran have been holding talks over Tehran's nuclear program for weeks, with Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, calling the last round in Muscat, the capital of Oman, "encouraging".

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi, meanwhile, called the negotiations "difficult but useful".

"Enrichment is an issue that Iran will not give up, and there is no room for compromise on it," he said.

"However, its dimensions, levels or amounts might change for a period to allow confidence-building."

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Iran's stance on uranium enrichment is concerning for regional stability. As an Indian, I worry how this might affect our energy security and relations with Gulf countries. We've always maintained peaceful nuclear programs - why can't Iran do the same? 🤔
P
Priya M.
Interesting development! While Iran has every right to peaceful nuclear energy, the weapons-grade enrichment is worrying. India has balanced its nuclear program well - maybe Iran can learn from our example? Hope our government monitors this closely given our oil imports from the region.
A
Amit S.
The US-Iran tensions affect global oil prices which directly impacts our economy. Whether Iran keeps enrichment facilities or not, India should focus on diversifying energy sources. More investment in renewables please! 🌞
S
Sunita R.
While I understand Iran's position, they must realize their actions have consequences for the entire region. India has historic ties with both Iran and US - maybe we can play a mediator role? Our foreign policy experts should explore this option.
V
Vikram J.
The article mentions Oman's mediation - smart move by Iran to involve a neutral party. India has always supported diplomatic solutions. Hope both sides find middle ground before this escalates further. War benefits no one!
N
Neha P.
Honestly, the whole nuclear race is exhausting. As an Indian citizen, I'm more concerned about how sanctions on Iran affect our Chabahar port project. That's crucial for our trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia. Hope our diplomats are working behind the scenes!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Iran Uranium Enrichment Seyed Abbas Araghchi US Iran Talks Nuclear Negotiations