Iran Declares Uranium Enrichment 'Non-Negotiable' Ahead of US Talks

Ahead of high-stakes nuclear negotiations, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has firmly declared that the country's uranium enrichment is 'non-negotiable,' despite U.S. demands for a complete halt to such activities. The U.S., under President Trump, has taken a tougher stance, with special envoy Steve Witkoff insisting that any new deal must require Iran to stop and eliminate its enrichment program, a shift from earlier positions that only sought a return to limits set by the 2015 nuclear accord. Both sides recently described their initial meeting as 'constructive,' but Araghchi criticized what he called contradictory signals from the U.S., warning that continued inconsistency could hinder progress. Iranian officials say they are willing to build confidence but will not accept any dictates or pressure, emphasizing the need for constructive and coherent negotiations. The talks are taking place against the backdrop of renewed U.S. sanctions and threats of military action if no agreement is reached. Analysts note that Iran's current enrichment efforts have brought it close to the threshold for weapons-grade uranium, raising concerns about regional security.