“To Protect the Interests of the Islamic Republic, We Seek Proficiency in Nuclear Technology for Peaceful Purposes” – Ayatollah Khamenei

“To Protect the Interests of the Islamic Republic, We Seek Proficiency in Nuclear Technology for Peaceful Purposes” – Ayatollah Khamenei
Tehran, June 4, 2025 — Nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran have once again reached a stalemate, with the issue of uranium enrichment emerging as a primary obstacle. In a televised address on Wednesday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made it clear that Tehran will not halt its uranium enrichment program. He stated, “The U.S. proposal is against the interests of the Islamic Republic.”

Khamenei said:

“Uranium enrichment is the key to our nuclear program, and it is precisely this point that our enemies want to target. The arrogant American leaders keep saying we shouldn’t have a nuclear program. Who are you to tell us whether Iran should enrich uranium or not?”

He added:

“We seek to master nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. This path will continue in order to safeguard the interests of the Islamic Republic.”

U.S. Proposal Sent via Oman

On Saturday, the United States submitted a new nuclear deal proposal to Iran through Omani mediation. The talks involved Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, former U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy for Middle Eastern affairs. Although five rounds of negotiations have already taken place, several key issues remain unresolved.

Core Disputes: Enrichment and Stockpiles

The most contentious issue in the talks is Iran’s insistence on continuing uranium enrichment within its own territory and its refusal to send highly enriched uranium stockpiles abroad. According to international observers, these materials could potentially be used to manufacture nuclear weapons, posing a threat to global security.

Iran's Position Remains Unchanged

Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful, firmly rejecting Western allegations that it is secretly pursuing nuclear weapons.

On Monday, Reuters reported that Tehran is likely to reject the new U.S. proposal, viewing it as a “failed offer” that shows no flexibility on Washington’s firm stance regarding uranium enrichment and ignores Iran’s sovereign interests.