Iran has firmly rejected a key condition set by former U.S. President Donald Trump requiring the Islamic Republic to halt its uranium enrichment activities, as part of ongoing negotiations aimed at reaching a new agreement on Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile development.

In a statement, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that uranium enrichment is a sovereign right and “not subject to negotiation,” emphasizing Iran’s continued commitment to peaceful nuclear development under international law.

The U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, reiterated Washington’s position that any final agreement must comply with the conditions laid out by Trump, including a complete halt to uranium enrichment and strict limitations on Iran’s missile capabilities.

These developments come just three days before the second round of talks between Araghchi and Witkoff, following an initial meeting held in Muscat, Oman. During the first round, the two sides exchanged messages via Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi before engaging in a two-hour face-to-face meeting.

The exchange highlights the growing gap between Iranian and American positions, casting uncertainty over the possibility of a breakthrough in negotiations.