Trump denies Iran uranium enrichment as secret nuclear proposal reports emerge

President Donald Trump made a bold statement on Monday evening regarding nuclear negotiations with Iran, asserting that Tehran will not be allowed to enrich uranium. This declaration came in response to a report by Axios, citing sources claiming that the U.S. had proposed allowing limited low-level uranium enrichment on Iranian soil for a specified period.

The proposal, if accurate, contradicts public statements from key figures in the administration, including lead negotiator Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Iran has consistently maintained its stance on uranium enrichment, arguing that it is a right and essential for nuclear energy production. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reiterated this position in a press conference on Monday, stating that Iran will respond to the U.S. proposal based on the principles of the Iranian nation.

The reported proposal also included the suggestion that Iran could join a regional consortium for uranium enrichment. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei dismissed this as not a new solution or a sufficient substitute for Iran’s own enrichment activities.

The White House has not disclosed the duration of negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, as concerns mount that Iran may be stalling for time until U.N. snapback sanctions expire in October. Despite this, Iran has indicated that it will continue negotiations but will not yield to U.S. demands.

Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani affirmed Iran’s commitment to protecting its national interests at the negotiating table, stating that all scenarios are on the table and that the country is prepared for any outcome.

The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm on their positions regarding uranium enrichment and the future of nuclear negotiations. It is essential for both parties to find common ground to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.