Iran’s foreign minister has dismissed a recent U.S. Military build-up in the Gulf as intimidation, while reaffirming Tehran’s commitment to its nuclear program even under the threat of war. The statements came following a visit by a U.S. Envoy carrying the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln to the region, amidst escalating tensions over the future of Iran’s enrichment activities.
“Their military build-up in the region does not frighten us,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Sunday, according to state media. He added that Iran is “a nation of diplomacy, and also a nation of war, but that does not mean we seek war.”
“Iran Will Not Abandon Uranium Enrichment”
Araghchi emphatically stated that Iran will not abandon uranium enrichment “even if war is imposed upon us.” He underscored the significant cost Iran has already paid for its peaceful nuclear program and enrichment efforts.
“Why do we insist so strongly on uranium enrichment and refuse to abandon it even if war is imposed upon us? Because no one has the right to dictate our actions,” the minister said, following a meeting with U.S. Special envoy Steve Witkoff in Muscat on Friday.
Muscat Talks
Araghchi’s comments followed two days of discussions with Washington regarding the nuclear file, hosted by the Sultanate of Oman. Iranian media reported “positive atmospheres” emerging from the talks, while simultaneously emphasizing what it described as “red lines.” U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that Iran has shown unprecedented flexibility.
According to Iranian media reports, ideas were discussed regarding potential technical flexibility in storage levels and uranium enrichment ratios, as a means of enhancing transparency and cooperation, and thereby alleviating U.S. Concerns about Iran’s nuclear program. Both sides reportedly agreed to continue the dialogue and hold further rounds of talks in the near future.
The current impasse centers on Iran’s continued enrichment of uranium, a process that can be used for both peaceful energy production and the development of nuclear weapons. The United States has consistently demanded that Iran halt its enrichment activities, a demand Iran has repeatedly rejected, maintaining its program is solely for peaceful purposes. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, stated in June 2025 that abandoning uranium enrichment was “100%” against the country’s interests.
The escalating rhetoric and military posturing come against a backdrop of broader regional instability. Tensions have been further heightened by the recent crackdown on protests within Iran, following a sharp decline in the value of the Iranian currency. President Trump had initially promised intervention to support those involved in the protests, but later indicated that reports suggested the executions of demonstrators had ceased.
However, human rights organizations paint a far grimmer picture. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has confirmed the deaths of over 6,301 people, including 5,925 protesters, since the unrest began in late December. HRANA is also investigating reports of another 17,000 deaths received despite a near three-week internet shutdown. The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) has warned that the final death toll could exceed 25,000.
The U.S. Military build-up, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln, is widely seen as a demonstration of force intended to pressure Iran into negotiations. Trump has warned that “time is running out” for Iran to reach a deal on its nuclear program. He has also alluded to the possibility of military action, comparing the current naval deployment to the one used in an attempt to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
However, the potential consequences of a military confrontation with Iran are significant. Iran has warned that any U.S. Involvement in a conflict alongside Israel would trigger “all-out war.” Iranian officials have also reiterated their commitment to continuing uranium enrichment for “peaceful purposes,” despite international concerns. The situation remains highly volatile, with the risk of miscalculation and escalation looming large.
The current diplomatic efforts, while offering a glimmer of hope, face significant obstacles. Iran’s insistence on maintaining its enrichment program, coupled with the U.S.’s unwavering demand for its cessation, presents a fundamental challenge. The outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications for regional security and the future of Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
