Khamenei Skeptical of US Nuclear Talks, Slams "Outrageous" Demands

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, voiced skepticism about ongoing nuclear talks with the US, dismissing prospects of a new deal due to Washington’s “excessive” demands on uranium enrichment. Speaking at a memorial for late President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash a year ago, Khamenei said, “We don’t expect any breakthrough. The US must stop making nonsensical remarks.”

The US, led by President Donald Trump, insists that Iran halt all uranium enrichment, a key step toward weaponization. US envoy Steve Witkoff emphasized, “We cannot allow even 1% enrichment capability,” proposing a deal to address concerns without disrespecting Iran. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi rebuffed this, stating, “Enrichment in Iran cannot be stopped. Unrealistic expectations derail talks.”

Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, but it has amassed 275kg of 60%-enriched uranium—near weapons-grade—enough for six bombs if further enriched, per the IAEA. This follows Iran’s breaches of the 2015 nuclear deal’s 3.67% enrichment cap, prompted by renewed US sanctions after Trump exited the agreement in his first term.

Khamenei praised Raisi’s refusal to engage in direct US talks, contrasting it with the “failed” negotiations under reformist Hassan Rouhani. With reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian now in office, Khamenei remains doubtful of progress. Trump has warned of potential US-Israeli military action if talks, mediated by Oman since April, collapse.