Iran Says Uranium Transfer Not Under Discussion, Accuses US of Undermining Diplomacy
NEW DELHI: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said talks between Tehran and Washington have nearly reached a deadlock over the highly sensitive issue of uranium enrichment, stressing that the transfer of Iran’s enriched uranium is currently not part of ongoing negotiations.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi on Friday, Araghchi said discussions surrounding uranium enrichment had become increasingly complicated, particularly in negotiations with the United States.
“We appreciate Russia’s support, but the issue of enrichment is extremely complex for us. Given the difficulties in negotiations with the Americans, this matter has almost reached a stalemate and will likely be postponed to future stages of talks,” he said when asked about the possibility of transferring Iran’s enriched uranium to Russia.
Araghchi noted that Tehran remains in contact with Moscow to examine whether Russian proposals could help move the negotiations forward.
The Iranian foreign minister also sharply criticised the United States, accusing Washington of sending contradictory messages while making what he described as irrational demands that have complicated diplomatic efforts.
“Trust is the most important issue. We cannot trust the Americans at all; therefore, every detail must be precisely defined before any agreement can be reached,” he said.
He warned that certain “warmongering” elements were attempting to sabotage diplomatic efforts and drag the United States into another conflict in the region.
Araghchi referred to recent remarks by Donald Trump, who reportedly rejected Tehran’s formal response during negotiations as “completely unacceptable” while at the same time signalling Washington’s willingness to continue discussions.
According to Araghchi, the conflicting signals reflected confusion within the US administration over its broader objectives regarding Iran.
The Iranian diplomat reiterated that Tehran remains committed to diplomacy but is also prepared for escalation if necessary.
“We seek dialogue and a just solution, but if they want war, that is their choice,” he said, adding that an agreement remains possible if Iran’s core demands are respected.
Araghchi also reaffirmed Iran’s long-standing position that it does not seek nuclear weapons, insisting that the country’s nuclear programme remains peaceful.
“We have always declared that nuclear weapons have no place in Iran’s policy. Our nuclear programme is peaceful, and we are prepared to ensure that it remains peaceful,” he said.
On regional security, Araghchi stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping, except for vessels linked to countries involved in military actions against Iran.
He added that Iran and Oman are currently discussing future mechanisms to ensure the safe management of the strategic waterway and guarantee secure passage for commercial vessels.
The Iranian minister blamed the United States for increasing instability in the region through sanctions and restrictions targeting Iranian ports and shipping activities but expressed confidence that conditions in the Strait of Hormuz would eventually return to normal once tensions ease.