Iran rules out sending enriched uranium abroad ahead of nuclear talks with US in Istanbul

2026-02-03 - 10:45

Ahead of planned nuclear negotiations with the United States in Istanbul on Friday, a top advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader said Tehran sees “no reason” to transfer its stockpile of enriched uranium abroad—a central point of contention in the talks. Ali Shamkhani, a senior political advisor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated that while Iran is capable of reducing enrichment levels to 20%, such a step must be met with “reciprocal concessions and compensation.” Insistence on Peaceful Program and Defense Posture Shamkhani reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful and that producing or possessing nuclear weapons is forbidden under the country’s defense doctrine. He noted that Iran is currently in “a real state of war” and fully prepared for any scenario but emphasized military readiness does not mean seeking conflict. His comments follow earlier statements by Iranian officials dismissing reports that enriched uranium would be moved out of the country. Upcoming Talks and Regional Warnings Negotiations between Tehran and Washington are set to resume after being stalled since the 12-day war with Israel in June last year. Shamkhani said Tehran is ready for “practical talks” directly with the US, not through intermediaries, arguing that Europe has shown an “inability to take effective action.” He warned that any US attack on Iran would involve Israel and trigger a proportional Iranian response, potentially escalating into a “very large crisis” for the region. Background of Tensions The talks come amid heightened US-Iran tensions following widespread anti-government protests in Iran late last year. US President Donald Trump has threatened military action, while Iranian officials have vowed a “swift and comprehensive” response to any attack. The UN nuclear agency estimates Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity—close to weapons-grade—at roughly 400 kilograms, a key concern for Washington and its allies.