Khamenei Rejects US Proposal on Uranium Enrichment, Vows Nuclear Independence

ISLAMABAD: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei firmly rejected a recent US-backed proposal aimed at curbing Iran’s uranium enrichment programme, calling it a direct violation of Iran’s national interests.

Speaking during a nationally televised address commemorating the 36th death anniversary of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Khamenei dismissed the idea that Tehran should halt its enrichment activities, saying it contradicts Iran’s core principles of independence and self-reliance.

The latest US proposal, relayed via Oman after five rounds of mediated talks, sought to limit Iran’s uranium stockpile and offered support for future nuclear power projects under international oversight.

However, Khamenei maintained that uranium enrichment was a vital component of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and insisted Iran would not trade this right in return for foreign concessions.

Self-Reliance at the Core of Iran’s Nuclear Stand

Khamenei made it clear that uranium enrichment is not merely a technical capability but a strategic asset tied directly to Iran’s sovereignty. “If we cannot produce our own nuclear fuel, we would be forced to depend on foreign nations — and that undermines our independence,” he said.

He added that the American plan is “100 per cent against our interests” and described US leaders as arrogant for trying to dictate terms to Iran.

He reaffirmed Iran’s claim that its nuclear programme is for peaceful energy purposes, while reiterating that the country will not dismantle its core nuclear operations simply to appease Western powers.

IAEA Report Raises Global Concerns

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently reported that Iran has stepped up production of highly enriched uranium, now reaching levels of 60pc — far above the 2015 nuclear deal limits.

This has prompted warnings from global stakeholders, particularly as tensions rise with Israel and the US. European nations are considering triggering the sanctions “snapback” clause in response to Iran’s non-compliance, a decision expected before October.

Tehran, however, has rejected the IAEA’s findings, claiming they are based on fabricated evidence supplied by Israel. Iran’s government continues to warn that any attack on its nuclear facilities would be met with a “harsh response.”