TEHRAN: Iran has expressed willingness to participate in a regional nuclear fuel consortium, while making clear that such a move would not replace its uranium enrichment program. This statement comes amid reports that Tehran proposed the idea during indirect nuclear talks with the United States.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei clarified that Iran did not formally propose the consortium but would consider joining if introduced, especially as regional countries seek to develop nuclear energy infrastructure. He emphasized that Iran’s ongoing enrichment activities remain non-negotiable and central to its peaceful energy goals.
Recent reports, including one from the New York Times citing unnamed Iranian officials, suggested Tehran offered a joint enrichment project involving Arab nations and US investment as an alternative to Washington’s demand to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed that uranium enrichment would continue regardless of a nuclear deal, contrasting with US negotiator Steve Witkoff’s position opposing any Iranian enrichment capacity.
Currently, Iran enriches uranium up to 60 percent, well above the 3.67 percent limit set by the 2015 nuclear deal but still below weapons-grade levels. While Western nations accuse Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons, Tehran insists its program is for peaceful purposes.
Since the US-Iran talks resumed in April with Omani mediation, Iran has criticized the United States for contradictory stances, highlighting mistrust stemming from inconsistencies between public comments and private negotiations.