Iran’s Supreme Leader Doubts Progress in Nuclear Talks with US as Tensions Escalate
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei expressed skepticism on Tuesday regarding the outcome of ongoing nuclear negotiations with the United States, casting doubt on the likelihood of a breakthrough amid increasingly rigid U.S. demands.
In comments posted on his official website, Khamenei criticized Washington’s insistence that Iran halt uranium enrichment, calling it “a big mistake” and stressing that “Tehran will not wait for American permission.” He dismissed the U.S. approach bluntly: “Try not to talk nonsense.”
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The remarks follow a fourth round of indirect talks held earlier this month in Oman. Iranian officials described the negotiations as “difficult,” while Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravanchi warned they would “not actually get anywhere” if the U.S. continues pressing for a complete halt to enrichment.
At the core of the deadlock is Iran’s insistence on its right to enrich uranium under the UN’s Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), a stance directly at odds with recent U.S. statements. Special envoy Steve Witkoff recently declared that Washington “cannot allow even 1% of an enrichment capability” under any agreement.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that while Iran had received a proposed date for the next round of talks, “we have yet to accept it,” noting that both sides remain locked in a “tussle.”
Amid this diplomatic impasse, President Donald Trump reiterated last week during a Middle East visit that the U.S. may use force if Iran refuses to agree to a deal, though he stopped short of denying Tehran’s right to enrichment.
The next round of talks is expected to take place in Europe, but no location or date has been officially confirmed.
Despite firm rhetoric from both sides, Witkoff said the U.S. still hopes for “some real positivity” from future negotiations.
