British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has stated that he rejects Iran’s claim that it enriches uranium for educational purposes.
In an interview with The Guardian covering various topics, Lammy expressed his confusion about Iran’s need for 60% enriched uranium. He emphasized that his discussions with Iranian leaders have highlighted the potential for nuclear weapon development to escalate tensions in the Middle East.
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi asserted that Iran still has the capacity to enrich uranium, and that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has agreed to a new framework for cooperation.
Araqchi mentioned that the agency will be sending a team to Iran for negotiations. He added that there is potential for facilities to be renewed and machinery to be replaced, as the necessary technology is available.
He noted, “We have a large number of scientists and technicians who have worked at our facilities. However, the timing and method of resuming enrichment depend on the circumstances.”
Araqchi also emphasized that as long as U.S. President Donald Trump demands a complete halt to enrichment, no agreement will be possible, although he believes Washington can express its concerns through negotiations.
He pointed out that while negotiations and arguments can take place, without zero enrichment, Iran has nothing to offer. The spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ismail Baqaei, announced that a team from the IAEA is expected to arrive in Iran within the next two weeks.
He added last week that this visit aims to explore options for ongoing collaboration and that it is crucial to consider new avenues for cooperation with the IAEA, in light of legislation passed by the Iranian parliament.