Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, declared nuclear weapons “unacceptable” on Saturday amid delicate nuclear talks with the United States.
The two nations are at an impasse over uranium enrichment; the US demands Iran completely cease it, while Tehran insists on its right to develop civilian nuclear capabilities. “If the issue is nuclear weapons, yes, we also consider such weapons unacceptable,” stated Araghchi in a televised address. “We agree with them on this matter,” he added, referring to the US stance.
Western countries, led by the United States, and Israel—considered the only nuclear power in the Middle East and Iran’s arch-enemy—suspect Tehran of pursuing nuclear weaponry. Iran denies any military ambitions and asserts its entitlement to civilian nuclear technology, particularly for energy purposes.
Notably, Iran remains the only non-nuclear-armed nation enriching uranium to a high level (60%), according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
“They cannot have nuclear weapons,” reiterated US President Donald Trump on Friday, noting that the US and Iran were “fairly close to an agreement.” However, Araghchi downplayed any American optimism, tweeting on Thursday that he was “not sure” about the “imminence” of a deal.
