ALWAGHT- Diplomatic sources confirm Iran insists it will not transfer enriched uranium abroad under any deal with the United States.
A diplomat involved in the ongoing Iran‑US indirect nuclear talks confirmed that Tehran will not permit any nuclear material to leave Iranian territory under a prospective agreement. The retention of enriched uranium is described as a core position for Iran, applying regardless of enrichment levels, and any future deal with Washington would focus on diluting material rather than exporting it.
The remarks responded to comments by Rosatom chief Alexey Likhachev, who said Russia could technically facilitate transfers of highly enriched uranium from Iran if requested. The Iranian diplomat emphasized that while Russia is aware of its capabilities, Iran has no intention of allowing such transfers, reaffirming that enrichment would remain domestic.
Regarding enrichment itself, Iran has shown “no flexibility” on zero enrichment and has formally ruled it out during Geneva negotiations. The US side has accepted that discussions should focus on centrifuge locations, levels, and numbers rather than eliminating enrichment, with Iran confirming that its enrichment operations remain fully viable despite reported facility damage during the 12-day conflict.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that Washington has not demanded permanent suspension or dismantlement of Iran’s enrichment program. He also rejected reports of a temporary two-to-three-year suspension and confirmed that proposals for a regional enrichment consortium including Iran are “not on the agenda” at this stage.
