US-Iran Ceasefire: The ceasefire has brought a brief relief not only to the Middle East but also to the entire world, yet there is so much chaos around the conditions of the pause in the war, which has created global fuel havoc. On the second day of the ceasefire, Iran ruled out any negotiations over its nuclear enrichment programme, saying the right to enrichment is non-negotiable.
Iran's state news agency, ISNA, reported that Mohammad Eslami, Vice President for Nuclear Affairs and head of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, said that external pressure to limit Iran's enrichment activities would not succeed, reaffirming Tehran's "right to enrichment is non-negotiable." No authority could prevent Iran from pursuing its nuclear programme, he added.
'Right To Enrichment Is Non-Negotiable'
"The enemies' demands regarding limiting enrichment will not come to pass. The right to enrichment is non-negotiable. No law or individual can stand in our way," asserted Eslami.
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Dismissing calls from Western countries to curb Tehran's nuclear activities, Eslami said such demands were unrealistic.
"The enemies' claims and demands to restrict Iran's enrichment programme are mere pipe dreams that will die with them," he said, as quoted by ISNA.
The statement comes ahead of high-stakes talks scheduled to take place in Islamabad between the concerned parties to negotiate a comprehensive and lasting end to the war.
Why Has Iran Raised The Nuclear Programme Issue Now?
Iran's nuclear programme was the core issue between the US and the Islamic nation. Ahead of the crucial talks, Tehran raised the issue as it wants to make its position stronger and clearer. Since the nuclear programme is the prime issue, Tehran wants the negotiation to revolve around it.
Iran, on several occasions, made it clear that they don't intend to make nuclear weapons, but it wants to use them for energy purposes, which was rejected by the US. Going by the 'aggression is the best defence' strategy, Tehran wants to create a favourable atmosphere before the negotiation talks.
Trump Is Adamant On Complete Elimination Of Iran's Nuclear Programme
On the other side, US President Donald Trump pushed for Tehran to completely give up its nuclear programme, including uranium enrichment, reiterating the US' long-standing position.
Earlier on Wednesday, Trump stated that the Islamic Republic has agreed to halt the uranium enrichment programme as part of the deal, while also stating that discussions are underway regarding tariff and sanctions relief on Iran.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the United States will "work closely" with Iran following what he described as a "very productive Regime Change" in the country. Trump further indicated that several aspects of a broader agreement have already been finalised, suggesting ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
(With ANI Inputs)