In a firm but measured response during ongoing negotiations, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has rejected a key US demand that Iran dismantle its entire nuclear infrastructure, labeling the request “unacceptable.” Speaking during a cabinet meeting on May 11, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran remains committed to pursuing its nuclear program for peaceful purposes and is serious about achieving a diplomatic breakthrough.

The latest round of negotiations between Iran and the United States, held in Muscat, Oman, has shown signs of cautious progress. However, Pezeshkian’s strong defense of Iran’s nuclear activities signals that significant hurdles remain before any comprehensive agreement can be reached.

“We are negotiating [seriously] because we desire peace,” Pezeshkian declared, underlining that Iran’s engagement is motivated by a genuine desire to avoid conflict and foster stability. Yet, he made it clear that Tehran would not agree to terms that undermine its sovereign right to pursue nuclear technology for peaceful objectives.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi echoed the president’s sentiments, describing the recent talks as “constructive” and notably more substantive than previous sessions. According to Araghchi, the fourth round of discussions marked a shift from generalities to concrete, technical issues – an important, if tentative, step forward.

“The fourth round of discussions was much more serious and candid than the previous three rounds,” Araghchi told reporters. “We’ve moved........

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