Iran open to written nuclear promise but rejects main US demand
Iran leader's remarks come as warring parties hold high-profile talks in Switzerland
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the country is prepared to provide formal assurances that no nuclear weapon will be developed but insisted it will not compromise on the right to enrich uranium as talks between warring parties are taking place in Switzerland.
The Iranian leader said he is open to putting Iran's position in writing, stating, "What the United States demands is that Iran not build an atomic bomb."
"This is nothing new," the president's website quoted him, adding, "And we can also state in writing that we have no intention of building a bomb."
But he maintained no discussion will take place on Iran's uranium enrichment program, arguing it is a sovereign right of the country.
"However, we will not relinquish our right to enrichment, and the other side will have no choice but to accept this right."
Pezeshkian's remarks highlight a gap in the respective demands of the warring parties as they engage in talks to end the war.
However, Tehran repeatedly denied its nuclear program is a springboard for an atomic bomb.
But Western capitals cast doubts on the assurances. Instead, they pushed for stricter oversight and limits on Iran's nuclear activities.
