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Iran on Friday dismissed the idea of transferring its enriched uranium abroad, calling the proposal "unacceptable" as U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that Washington would take control of the stockpile.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei indicated that negotiations remain open but hinge on specific conditions. "A deal is achievable if our rights and interests are secured," he stated, stressing that compensation for damages inflicted on Iran would form a key part of any agreement.
He also added that Tehran would respond in kind if commitments are not honored.
Iran moved to reopen the Strait of Hormuz on Friday after a truce to halt Israeli operations in Lebanon, reopening a key artery of global energy trade that had been effectively closed since the war began on Feb. 28, while Trump described the move as a "full reopening" and claimed it would not be shut again despite Iran limiting access to the duration of the ceasefire.
Tehran, however, pointed to inconsistencies in U.S. messaging, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Baqaei described recent statements from American officials as reflecting "confusion," emphasizing that decisions on the waterway are shaped by operational realities rather than public rhetoric.
He confirmed that civilian shipping continues through the strait following recent regional developments, in line with decisions by Iranian authorities.
Meanwhile, Baqaei said the latest meeting in Islamabad, which failed to deliver a result, helped clarify both sides’ red lines and areas of convergence, noting that "there is no ambiguity in negotiations."
Trump, on the other hand, claimed Iran has "agreed to everything" and will cooperate with the United States to remove its enriched uranium.
He ruled out deploying U.S. ground forces but suggested a coordinated effort. "Our people, together with the Iranians, are going to work together to go get it," he told CBS News, adding that the material would ultimately be transported to the United States.
The U.S. president framed the move as part of a broader understanding that would eliminate the need for conflict, while maintaining pressure through an ongoing blockade until a deal is finalized.
Trump rejected reports that Washington might release $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets as part of the deal, stating that the U.S. would not provide any financial compensation.
In earlier remarks the same day, Trump said the next round of talks with Iran would likely be held within days in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital, adding that a deal is nearly finalized.
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