Iran’s supreme leader hits back at US proposal on nuclear programme

On June 4, 2025, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly rejected a new U.S. proposal concerning Tehran’s nuclear program, labeling it a threat to Iran’s sovereignty and national interests. The proposal, mediated by Oman, suggested that Iran limit its uranium enrichment and surrender its enriched uranium stockpile. Khamenei criticized the proposal as undermining Iranian sovereignty and self-reliance, emphasizing that uranium enrichment is central to the country’s nuclear agenda.

Despite five rounds of negotiations involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and President Trump’s envoy, significant disparities remain unresolved. While Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear ambitions are peaceful and denies intentions to develop nuclear weapons, the U.S. proposal includes a multinational consortium to provide low-enriched uranium, aiming to limit Iran’s enrichment capabilities.

Khamenei condemned U.S. demands as aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear industry, reiterating opposition to American pressure. However, he acknowledged the importance of talks for easing economic sanctions. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that Tehran would soon respond formally to the proposal.

The situation remains fluid as diplomatic discussions continue, with the potential consequences of a failed deal including regional instability and the risk of Tehran withdrawing completely from international nuclear oversight.