Iran’s Supreme Leader Rejects US Demand, Says Enriched Uranium Must Remain in Country

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has reportedly ordered that the country’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium must remain inside Iran, a move that could complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts with the United States and Israel.

According to senior Iranian officials cited by Reuters, the directive rejects one of Washington’s major demands in the current negotiations; the transfer of Iran’s near-weapons-grade uranium out of the country as part of any future peace or nuclear agreement.

The development comes amid fragile ceasefire discussions following months of heightened tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel. American and Israeli officials have repeatedly insisted that any deal with Tehran must include strict controls on Iran’s nuclear programme, including the removal of enriched uranium stockpiles.

Iranian sources said Tehran initially considered sending part of the uranium abroad but changed its position after growing fears of possible future military attacks. Iranian authorities reportedly believe keeping the material within the country is essential for national security and leverage in negotiations.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) previously reported that Iran possesses significant quantities of uranium enriched up to 60 percent purity, close to weapons-grade level. Iran, however, continues to maintain that its nuclear programme is intended for peaceful and civilian purposes, including research and medical applications.

Analysts say the latest directive could further strain already difficult negotiations between Tehran and Washington, while also increasing uncertainty across global energy markets. Oil prices reportedly rose after news of Iran’s hardened stance emerged.