Khamenei allegedly ordered that stocks of highly enriched uranium remain in the country. According to the agency's interlocutors, the ayatollah's position reflects the consistent approach of the Iranian political elite. Informants from the Iranian capital noted that there is unanimity on this matter at the highest levels of government.
The issue of enriched uranium is one of the most contentious issues in US-Iran relations. Washington clearly declares that it will not allow Tehran to continue working on a nuclear program leading to the production of a bomb. However, the Iranian authorities consistently claim that their nuclear activity is solely for peaceful purposes.
Arsenal for over 10 warheads
Despite assurances that the program is peaceful, Iran has so far accumulated approximately 440 kg of uranium enriched above the level permitted for civilian purposes. This supply would be enough to produce over 10 nuclear warheads.
The ayatollah's decision means that Tehran is tightening its position in the negotiations. This direction may further complicate talks on ending the armed conflict in which the United States, Israel and Iran are involved.
