Khamenei Rejects U.S. Talks, Defends Iran’s Nuclear Enrichment Program
IRAN: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei firmly ruled out the possibility of negotiations with the United States, stating on Tuesday that talks held under pressure and threats serve no purpose and undermine Iran’s national dignity.
In a pre-recorded message, Khamenei emphasized that Iran would not abandon its uranium enrichment program, despite growing Western demands and sanctions. While reiterating that nuclear weapons have no place in Iran’s defense strategy, he asserted Tehran’s right to enrich uranium up to 60% for domestic purposes.
“Negotiating under threats is unacceptable for any nation with pride and dignity,” Khamenei said. “Talks with the U.S. government will neither serve our national interests nor shield us from harm.”
Iran Holds Firm on Enrichment Rights
Khamenei dismissed Washington’s demands that Iran halt all enrichment activities, calling such expectations an insult to the Iranian people. He defended enrichment up to 60% purity as critical for medical and industrial needs, firmly rejecting the idea of yielding to external pressure or sanctions.
Accusations Against Israel
The Supreme Leader also accused Israel of attempting to destabilize Iran by inciting domestic unrest and laying the groundwork for a post-Islamic Republic era. He alleged that Israeli operatives had tried — and failed — to provoke protests as part of a broader campaign to undermine the country’s Islamic foundations.
Nuclear Weapons: Not Part of Strategy
Addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Khamenei reiterated that the Islamic Republic has no interest in developing nuclear weapons. However, he maintained that Iran will continue to advance its peaceful nuclear capabilities within internationally recognized limits.
“We do not need nuclear weapons, and we have chosen not to pursue them,” he stated. “But we will not compromise on our right to peaceful nuclear advancement.”
