Iran Vows to Keep Enriched Uranium Domestic, Rejects Talks Without US Concessions

Iran's regime is hardening its stance against the West, with a senior official stating the country will not compromise on its nuclear program and will not allow any enriched uranium to be removed from its territory.

Rezaei also indicated that negotiations with the United States are frozen, stating that dialogue will not resume until the U.S. rebuilds trust by meeting Iran's conditions. This firm position comes amidst reports of mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar aimed at preventing renewed conflict between Washington and Tehran.

According to the Arabic newspaper Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed, Pakistan and Qatar have proposed a compromise involving the transfer of interest from $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds held in Qatari banks. This would be in exchange for Iran taking steps regarding oversight of its nuclear program. Sources familiar with the talks suggest this proposal partially addresses demands from both sides and aims to avert escalation. The plan reportedly includes Iran allowing discreet, non-public inspections of its nuclear sites by the International Atomic Energy Agency, a move intended to satisfy U.S. demands for increased oversight. In return, the mediators are offering partial access to Iran's frozen assets, specifically the accrued interest on the $6 billion held in Qatar.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the tensions, stating that a final decision needs to be made on how the U.S. intends to defeat the Iranian regime, suggesting options for a "pleasant" or "unpleasant" path. In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to overthrowing the Iranian regime, calling it "the main thing" and noting he had recently discussed this with President Trump, emphasizing Iran's persistent nature despite setbacks.