He criticized Washington’s stance, stating, “Who are you to decide whether Iran should have an enrichment?”
DUBAI –Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday rejected a renewed U.S. proposal seeking an end to Tehran’s uranium enrichment programme, calling the demand “contrary to Iran’s national interests.”
Speaking in Tehran, Khamenei said, “Uranium enrichment is the key to our nuclear programme… The enemies have focused on the enrichment.” He further criticized Washington’s stance, stating, “Who are you to decide whether Iran should have an enrichment?”
The U.S. plan—delivered via Omani mediators—sought to curb Iran’s enrichment activities in exchange for eased sanctions. However, Iran has long maintained its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.
Despite five rounds of negotiations, key sticking points remain, including Iran’s refusal to halt domestic enrichment or export its existing stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
The rejection comes amid President Trump’s renewed “maximum pressure” campaign, which includes tighter sanctions and threats of military action. Khamenei reiterated Iran’s commitment to self-reliance and nuclear sovereignty.