A senior Iranian official stated that Tehran will not compromise on its nuclear program, even if a deal is reached to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Key facts
- •President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed hope for a deal with the US before the November 3 midterm elections.
- •The Strait of Hormuz currently serves as a central bargaining chip in the US-Iran conflict.
- •The International Atomic Energy Agency estimated Iran held 440.9 kg of 60% enriched uranium as of June 2025.
- •Iran-backed Houthi militias have been involved in the escalation by launching missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia.
A senior Iranian official stated on Friday that Tehran will offer no flexibility regarding its nuclear program, regardless of whether the United States accepts a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the waterway will remain closed until all of Iran’s conditions are met by Washington. This stance comes as both nations navigate a proposal aimed at ending seven months of conflict.
Terms of the Proposed Deal
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi outlined a proposal on Thursday that includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within seven days. In exchange, Iran demands that the United States lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports, release frozen funds, and waive oil sanctions. The proposal also calls for an end to hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon.
Nuclear Program Stance
Despite the ongoing negotiations, the senior official emphasized that Iran will not grant concessions on its rights to enrich uranium or agree to ship highly enriched uranium out of the country. While Iranian authorities have previously suggested they could agree to dilute their most highly enriched stockpiles, the official maintained that detailed nuclear negotiations will only occur after US conditions are satisfied. Western nations have long expressed concern over Iran's enrichment of uranium to 60%, a level closer to the 90% required for weapons, though Tehran denies seeking nuclear arms.
Timeline
- June 2025Israel and the US attacked Iranian nuclear facilities.
- ThursdayForeign Minister Abbas Araghchi outlined the proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
- FridayA senior Iranian official stated there would be no nuclear concessions.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The New Arab, Al-Monitor.
