Iran : No Deal if U.S. Demands End to Nuclear Enrichment Ahead of Crucial Talks

Tehran, Iran – May 23, 2025 — In a strong and unequivocal statement ahead of a new round of international nuclear talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has announced that Tehran will agree to “no deal if U.S. demands end to nuclear enrichment.” This declaration signals a tough stance from Iran as world powers prepare to gather for renewed discussions in Vienna aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear agreement.

Speaking to reporters in Tehran, Amir-Abdollahian emphasized that uranium enrichment is a “non-negotiable right” under international law. “If the United States insists on an end to nuclear enrichment, Iran will not accept any deal. Our peaceful nuclear activities are grounded in our sovereign rights as outlined in the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT),” he stated.

Iran Holds Firm on Nuclear Rights

The bold declaration that there will be “no deal if U.S. demands end to nuclear enrichment” comes as Iran continues to expand its uranium enrichment activities. Currently, Iran is enriching uranium up to 60% purity—well beyond the 3.67% limit agreed to under the original Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Although still below weapons-grade level, the progress has raised alarm among Western powers and regional rivals alike.

Amir-Abdollahian defended the enrichment program as essential for Iran’s energy, scientific, and medical needs. “We will never yield to pressure that tries to strip us of our legal rights. Our nuclear program is peaceful, transparent, and monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA),” he asserted.

U.S. Position and Diplomatic Deadlock

The U.S. has made it clear that full compliance with the JCPOA is a prerequisite for lifting sanctions, which have crippled Iran’s economy since the Trump administration unilaterally withdrew from the deal in 2018. The Biden administration is open to rejoining the agreement, but insists that Iran must roll back its current nuclear advancements, including its enrichment levels.

Diplomatic sources suggest that the U.S. is unlikely to drop its demand for a significant curtailment of Iran’s enrichment program. This puts the two sides at a standoff, with the Iranian position clearly articulated: “no deal if U.S. demands end to nuclear enrichment.”

Economic Stakes and Strategic Calculations

Reviving the nuclear deal would bring much-needed relief to Iran’s economy, especially through the easing of sanctions on oil exports and international banking. However, Iranian officials appear ready to sacrifice these potential gains if it means protecting what they consider a national right.

“Economic pressure will not force Iran to compromise on its dignity or sovereignty,” said Amir-Abdollahian. This hardened stance may be aimed at strengthening Iran’s bargaining position, suggesting that Tehran is prepared to walk away from talks if red lines are crossed.

Global Reactions and Regional Impact

So far, Washington has not officially responded to the minister’s latest comments, but experts say the tone sets a difficult stage for negotiations. Allies like Israel and Saudi Arabia are likely to push the U.S. to remain firm, warning that any leniency on Iran’s nuclear enrichment could embolden Tehran and destabilize the region.

Analysts believe the declaration of “no deal if U.S. demands end to nuclear enrichment” reflects Tehran’s broader strategy: secure a deal that respects its technological advances or prepare for prolonged diplomatic isolation.

A Pivotal Moment in Nuclear Diplomacy

With talks scheduled to begin next week in Vienna, the world is watching closely. The potential for a breakthrough or a complete collapse of negotiations hinges largely on whether both sides can find a compromise on the enrichment issue. The insistence by Iran that there will be “no deal if U.S. demands end to nuclear enrichment” sets a firm boundary that could either serve as a basis for a new understanding or lead to a continued stalemate.

Either way, the stakes are high. A diplomatic solution could ease tensions and restore international cooperation, while failure could escalate the nuclear crisis and further destabilize the Middle East.

As Iran and the U.S. prepare for the negotiating table, one thing is clear: uranium enrichment remains the dealmaker—or dealbreaker—in the evolving saga of Iran’s nuclear ambitions.