The US and Iran clash over uranium enrichment as nuclear negotiations resume in Rome, marking the most critical round of talks in years. Both sides are deeply divided on whether Iran can continue enriching uranium under any future agreement.
On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared, “Zero enrichment = we do NOT have a deal,” during tense exchanges with US officials. The talks are being held with Omani mediation and have spotlighted long-standing nuclear tensions.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei slammed Washington’s position, accusing the US of making “nonsense” demands. He rejected any suggestion of halting enrichment, which Tehran claims is for peaceful energy needs. However, international watchdogs warn Iran has enough enriched uranium to build multiple nuclear weapons.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Policy Director Michael Anton led the American delegation. After more than two hours of talks, US officials called the discussions “constructive” but admitted “there is still work to be done.”
US and Iran clash over uranium enrichment as Washington seeks a civil nuclear program for Iran that excludes enrichment entirely. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called this the “only responsible non-proliferation approach,” citing Iran’s track record of expanding enrichment levels since 2006.
Iran, meanwhile, insists on its right to enrich uranium for energy, despite nuclear power accounting for less than 1% of its national energy use. Araghchi stated there is still a path forward if the US softens its stance and considers alternative solutions proposed by Oman.
The International Atomic Energy Agency has warned about Iran’s growing stockpile of near-weapons-grade uranium. Experts fear Tehran’s current capabilities could enable it to produce five nuclear bombs. Iran has also been upgrading its missile program, raising further concerns among Western powers.
Despite heated rhetoric, both sides agreed to continue the dialogue. Another round of talks is expected soon, though the timeline remains uncertain.
Analysts say Iran’s motivation to engage stems from its need to ease US sanctions, avoid military confrontation with Israel, and block a European snapback of penalties. These pressures could give the US leverage to push for a tougher deal.
US and Iran clash over uranium enrichment, and the outcome of these talks could reshape nuclear diplomacy for years to come. Whether a compromise is possible may depend on whether each side is willing to shift its red lines.
For more political updates, visit DC Brief.
