Iran Has Not Agreed to Transfer Highly Enriched Uranium Stockpile, Reuters Reports
According to Reuters and Al Arabiya TV Saudi Arabia, Iran denied agreeing to transfer highly enriched uranium as reports pointed to possible June 5 U.S.-Iran talks and a disputed preliminary memorandum.
Reuters, citing a senior Iranian source, reported that Iran has not agreed to hand over its highly enriched uranium stockpile and that the Iran nuclear issue is not part of the preliminary agreement. This adds to earlier Iranian denials of Axios-reported memorandum terms, which Tehran said reflected only the U.S. side. Separate reporting said the next round of U.S.-Iran talks may be held on June 5 with both sides sending chief representatives, while Xinhua-cited coverage said Pakistan would announce an initial memorandum of understanding without the negotiating parties present. At the same time, an Iranian military commander warned of a forceful response to any aggression in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, highlighting continued regional tensions despite reports of possible diplomatic progress.
- Highly enriched uranium: Uranium processed to a high concentration of fissile material, making it a sensitive issue in nuclear negotiations and non-proliferation efforts.
- Memorandum of understanding: A preliminary written understanding between parties that outlines broad points of agreement, often before a final or binding deal is concluded.
- Strait of Hormuz: A strategic maritime chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf to global shipping routes and a key corridor for oil transport.