Iranian Official Says Nuclear Talks Have Not Begun, Enrichment Rights Are Red Line

A senior Iranian official said Oct. 7 that Iran and the United States have not begun negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program, with recognition of Iran’s uranium-enrichment rights remaining a red line for Tehran.

The official said Washington must first meet Iran’s conditions before the two sides can discuss the nuclear issue. Iran will not abandon its right to enrich uranium, although the details of enrichment could be addressed at a later stage.

The comments indicate that the two governments remain divided over the framework for any potential nuclear discussions. The Iranian official described remarks by U.S. Vice President Vance as American ideas and demands, rather than the result of negotiations.

Iran’s position leaves recognition of enrichment rights as a prerequisite for moving discussions forward.