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3. Iran Rejects Pressure on Uranium Enrichment, Floats Dilution if Sanctions Lifted

Iran conveyed its position on the issue of uranium enrichment on Monday, stating that it would not be coerced to scale back its nuclear program but would be willing to dilute its enriched uranium if sanctions are lifted.

The head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, Mohammad Eslami, signaled the country’s willingness to dilute its stockpile of 60 percent enriched uranium if all sanctions are lifted. However, it is not clear if this refers only to the U.S. sanctions.

Meanwhile, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran will never relinquish its right to enrich uranium, even under military pressure. “Why do we insist so much on enrichment and refuse to give it up even if a war is imposed on us? Because no one has the right to dictate our behaviour,” he added.

Despite the U.S.-Iran talks that took place last Friday in Oman having gone smoothly, the U.S. announced sanctions against vessels in Iran’s shadow fleet. While the U.S. insisted on discussing the ballistic missiles and proxy network issues in addition to nuclear talks, only the latter remained on the table.

Earlier on Monday, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff visited the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier positioned near the Middle East, underscoring Washington’s continued military posture amid diplomatic engagement

President Donald Trump’s position towards Iran’s nuclear program remains that Iran should not retain the capacity to enrich its own uranium, which Iran rejects.

Iran’s statements reflect continued signaling between Tehran and Washington as both sides test negotiating space amid heightened tensions