Khamenei Dismisses U.S. Nuclear Deal Proposal as Counterproductive

In a recent speech, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected the U.S. proposal concerning uranium enrichment, asserting that it runs counter to Iran's objectives for technological independence and self-sufficiency.

In a bold address delivered in Tehran, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, staunchly rejected the U.S. proposal related to nuclear negotiations, calling it "nonsense." He emphasized that ceasing uranium enrichment would be "100 percent" against Iran's strategic interests. The proposal, submitted by the Trump administration, aimed to allow Iran some leeway in uranium enrichment while working towards a more comprehensive agreement to limit its nuclear capabilities. Nonetheless, Khamenei's remarks indicated a firm stance against the perceived U.S. interference in Iran's nuclear agenda.

"The response to the U.S. government's nonsense is clear," Khamenei stated, highlighting a viewpoint where building nuclear power plants without the freedom to enrich uranium is seen as futile. He framed the U.S. approach as an obstruction to Iran's aspiration for self-sufficiency, strongly opposing any limitations on the country's nuclear program. He reiterated the necessity of honoring Iran's right to advance its technology unimpeded by foreign pressures.

This latest public statement occurred following an impasse in negotiations, where Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, maintained that any potential agreement would require the acknowledgment of Iran's enrichment rights. Khamenei did not categorically declare an end to negotiations with the U.S., leaving the door open for continued discussions, albeit under terms favorable to Iran's independence and progress.

He asserted that Tehran would not bow to external demands about its nuclear aspirations and criticized what he termed the "rude and arrogant" nature of U.S. leadership. By maintaining the right to enrich uranium, Khamenei signaled a determination to defend Iran's technological advancements against perceived foreign attempts to hinder its progress.