ALWAGHT- An Iranian deputy foreign minister stated that Tehran is willing to accept some restrictions on its nuclear program in return for the removal of economic sanctions, but completely halting uranium enrichment is off the table.
“Iran is willing to be flexible regarding the scope and limits of enrichment, but stopping enrichment entirely is unacceptable because it is vital for our self-reliance, not based on empty promises,” Majid Takht Ravanchi told Kyodo News on Saturday.
Iranian officials have consistently emphasized that they will not relinquish their right to peaceful nuclear technology, including uranium enrichment.
Tehran sees the US stance as closely mirroring Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hardline demand for complete cessation of enrichment.
Iran insists that uranium enrichment is a sovereign right under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty for peaceful uses like energy and medicine. The program is seen as both a technical necessity and a symbol of national pride, reflecting Iran’s desire to maintain self-reliance amid distrust of external powers due to past broken agreements.
While Iran shows some openness to negotiating limits on enrichment levels and capacity to ease sanctions, it firmly rejects a complete halt. Tehran aims to protect its technological progress and leverage in negotiations by agreeing only to certain restrictions, such as reducing centrifuges or allowing more inspections, similar to past nuclear deals like the JCPOA.
The United States and Israel take a hardline stance, demanding that Iran fully stop enrichment to prevent nuclear weapons development. Iran views this demand as unrealistic and an infringement on its sovereignty. The dispute over enrichment remains central to regional power dynamics and future diplomatic efforts, with tough compromises needed amid ongoing mistrust.
