Khamenei Expresses Doubt Over US Nuclear Deal: Demands 'Excessive'

Khamenei Expresses Doubt Over US Nuclear Deal

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has expressed skepticism about the possibility of a renewed nuclear agreement with the United States, stating that the US has made "excessive and outrageous" demands regarding uranium enrichment.

Negotiation Standoff

These comments come despite recent optimism from the US, with former President Trump claiming a potential agreement was in sight following talks mediated by Oman. However, Iran's chief negotiator has refuted claims that Iran must halt uranium enrichment, creating a significant point of contention.

Khamenei's Address

Khamenei's skepticism was voiced during a ceremony honoring the late President Ebrahim Raisi. He praised Raisi for rejecting direct negotiations with the US. Khamenei also criticized the US approach, particularly remarks regarding Iran's enrichment capabilities, emphasizing that Iran does not require US permission.

US Response

US envoy Steve Witkoff stated the US cannot allow any enrichment capability. Iran's Foreign Minister swiftly countered, asserting enrichment is non-negotiable.

Background on the 2015 Deal

The original 2015 nuclear deal, involving Iran, the US, the UK, France, China, Russia, and Germany, limited Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. Iran has since breached these restrictions in response to reinstated US sanctions, stockpiling enriched uranium. The IAEA has warned about Iran's uranium stockpile enriched to near weapons grade.