Iran Dismisses US Nuclear Proposal but Leaves Door Open for Talks

Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has rejected a recent proposal from the United States aimed at halting the country’s uranium enrichment activities, describing it as a threat to national sovereignty and an attempt to undermine Iran’s strategic strength. In a televised address on 4 June 2025, Khamenei warned that accepting the plan would amount to surrendering Iran’s independence and set a dangerous precedent for foreign interference.

“The Americans seek to strip us of a vital element of our national power,” Khamenei declared. “This is unacceptable. Iran will not forgo its legitimate right to peaceful nuclear development.”

The US proposal, reportedly delivered by White House envoy Steve Witkoff, involves establishing a multinational consortium to supply Iran with low-enriched uranium for civilian energy purposes. In return, Tehran would be expected to shut down its domestic enrichment programme — a long-standing point of contention in negotiations between the two countries.

Despite rejecting this central demand, Khamenei left open the prospect of further dialogue. He acknowledged the pressure of crippling international sanctions and hinted that Iran would issue an official response in due course. “Negotiation does not equate to surrender,” he said. “We will pursue any avenue that protects our dignity and national interests.”

Iranian officials suggested they may consider a compromise, proposing the creation of a regional enrichment consortium — provided it is based within Iran. Such an arrangement could enable Tehran to maintain its technical capabilities while addressing Western concerns over nuclear proliferation.

The latest exchange comes amid stalled efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA), which aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. Western powers have long insisted Iran must limit uranium enrichment, while Tehran insists on its sovereign right to peaceful nuclear development.

A spokesperson for the US State Department declined immediate comment on Iran’s response but reiterated Washington’s commitment to diplomacy to prevent nuclear proliferation.

Sources: Reuters, AP News



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