Iran has firmly rejected claims that it agreed to transfer its enriched uranium to the United States, escalating tensions in ongoing negotiations.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei dismissed reports suggesting Tehran had agreed to move its enriched uranium abroad.
Speaking to Iranian media, he said, “Enriched uranium is as sacred to us as Iranian soil and will under no circumstances be transferred anywhere.” He added that such proposals have never been part of Iran’s position.
Baghaei also stated that claims circulating in US media and by American officials cannot be confirmed.
The spokesperson emphasized that Iran’s nuclear program holds the same importance as its territorial integrity. He reiterated that the transfer of uranium to the United States “has not been presented as an option,” underlining Tehran’s firm stance on maintaining control over its nuclear materials.
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Baghaei warned that if the ongoing blockade continues, it would be considered a violation of the ceasefire agreement. He added that Iran would take necessary measures regarding the Strait of Hormuz, signaling potential escalation if tensions persist.
Iran’s priorities in negotiations
On ongoing talks with the United States, Baghaei said lifting sanctions remains a top priority for Tehran. He also highlighted that compensation for damages suffered during the conflict is a key demand for Iran in any future agreement.
In contrast, US President Donald Trump claimed that Iran had agreed to cooperate with Washington in removing enriched uranium from the country.
Speaking to CBS News, Trump said, “Our people, together with the Iranians, are going to work together to go get it. And then we’ll take it to the United States.”
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He clarified that no American ground troops would be involved in the operation, stating, “No troops. We’ll go down and get it with them.”
Dispute over financial terms
Trump also denied reports that the US was considering releasing $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for the uranium stockpile.
“No, we are not paying 10 cents,” he said, rejecting the claims outright.
Despite the disagreement, Trump expressed optimism about the broader situation, saying the war in Iran could end “pretty soon.”
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“We’re doing very well… it should be ending pretty soon,” he said during an event in Las Vegas, adding that the US could achieve its objectives if needed.
No confirmation of direct talks
Baghaei also denied claims that Trump had held direct talks with Iranian officials, further highlighting the disconnect between the two sides’ narratives.
The conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran underscore the fragile nature of ongoing negotiations. While the US signals progress and cooperation, Iran maintains a firm stance on sovereignty and nuclear policy, leaving the path to a final agreement uncertain.
