Khamenei Rejects U.S. Nuclear Deal, Vows Continued Enrichment

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has rejected a U.S. proposal to curb uranium enrichment, declaring it “100% against our interests” and affirming that Iran will not abandon its nuclear ambitions.

Speaking in a televised address on June 4 to mark the death anniversary of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Khamenei dismissed U.S. calls to halt uranium enrichment as a violation of Iran’s sovereignty. “The proposal that the Americans have presented is 100% against our interests,” he said. “Who are you to decide whether Iran should have enrichment?”

He emphasized that enrichment remains “the key” to Iran’s nuclear program and warned that U.S. leaders continue to act with “rudeness and arrogance.”

Five Rounds of Talks, No Deal in Sight

The U.S. proposal—mediated via Oman—was delivered during the fifth round of indirect nuclear talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Tehran’s primary objection centers on demands to halt domestic enrichment and export its existing stockpile of highly enriched uranium.

Khamenei did not signal an end to negotiations but insisted any deal must uphold “national self-reliance and the principle of ‘We Can.’”

Tensions Mount Amid Trump’s Renewed ‘Maximum Pressure’

Since returning to office in January, President Trump has reimposed and expanded sanctions on Iran while warning of potential airstrikes should talks fail. The clerical establishment in Tehran is simultaneously managing multiple crises—including a collapsing currency, water shortages, and regional proxy losses.

Reuters also notes that Israeli officials, citing Iran’s nuclear program as an existential threat, continue to threaten preemptive strikes. Iran has vowed a “harsh response” if attacked.