Iran denies reported enrichment freeze, reaffirms nuclear policy

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
28 May 2025 21:58

The rebuttal comes in response to a Reuters report citing anonymous sources, which falsely implied that Iran might agree to pause enrichment or export enriched material abroad in return for Western recognition of its peaceful nuclear rights and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

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Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei speaks at a press conference. (Iran Foreign Ministry)

Iran has categorically rejected unfounded media claims suggesting it is prepared to suspend uranium enrichment in exchange for limited US concessions, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to peaceful nuclear development under international law.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei made clear on Wednesday that the Islamic Republic would never compromise on its inalienable right to enrich uranium, a right enshrined under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). "Continued uranium enrichment is Iran's non-alternative principle," Baghaei stated on IRIB, firmly denying rumors that Tehran is considering a one-year freeze on enrichment.

The rebuttal comes in response to a Reuters report citing anonymous sources, which falsely implied that Iran might agree to pause enrichment or export enriched material abroad in return for Western recognition of its peaceful nuclear rights and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Tehran dismissed the report as yet another example of Western media distortion aimed at pressuring Iran into concessions that violate its sovereign interests.

Sovereign enrichment

Iranian officials have repeatedly affirmed that enrichment is not a bargaining chip but a vital element of the country's energy strategy and scientific advancement. Tehran has shown openness to constructive diplomacy but insists that all talks must be rooted in mutual respect and recognition of Iran's legal rights, not coercive demands dressed as negotiations.

The clarification comes as indirect dialogue with the United States continues through Omani mediation. Iran has welcomed efforts to de-escalate tensions but has refused any framework that seeks to impose limitations on its nuclear infrastructure under external pressure. While discussions about IAEA cooperation are ongoing, Tehran has made it clear that any increased transparency would be part of a balanced and reciprocal agreement, not a unilateral gesture.

Just days earlier, Baghaei had slammed similar rumors as "fabrications originating from the Zionist entity," accusing "Israel" of trying to derail regional diplomacy and distract from its own atrocities in Gaza. President Masoud Pezeshkian's recent visit to Oman further reflects Iran's proactive engagement with its neighbors to promote regional stability and assert diplomatic independence.