Iran Defiant: Nuclear Enrichment to Continue With or Without U.S. Deal

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi declared Sunday that Iran will persist with its nuclear enrichment program, deal or no deal with the United States. In a pointed statement on X, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s unwavering commitment to its peaceful nuclear program, dismissing public posturing by U.S. officials as inconsistent with private talks. He underscored that Iran’s mastery of enrichment technology is a hard-won scientific triumph, born of significant sacrifice, and non-negotiable under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Araghchi’s remarks come on the heels of President Donald Trump’s Friday announcement that the U.S. has proposed a nuclear deal to Iran, urging swift action to avoid dire consequences. Trump, speaking in the United Arab Emirates, hinted at a tentative agreement, stating Iran has sort of agreed to terms that would prevent it from creating nuclear dust—a colorful phrase for weaponization. Meanwhile, U.S. and Iranian negotiators have engaged in four rounds of talks, primarily in Oman, to address Tehran’s advancing nuclear capabilities.

Concerns are mounting as the International Atomic Energy Agency reported in March that Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium has surged from 182 kg to 275 kg in early 2025. Senator Marco Rubio, appearing on Hannity, warned that Iran is now a threshold nuclear weapons state, capable of rapidly weaponizing its stockpile if it chooses. At 60% enrichment, Iran is just a step away from the 90% needed for a nuclear weapon, heightening the urgency of diplomatic efforts.

Araghchi, however, remains defiant, signaling that Iran’s nuclear ambitions won’t bend to external pressures. While open to a serious conversation to ensure Iran’s program remains peaceful, he made it clear: enrichment is here to stay, deal or no deal.