Iran tells US: Negotiate free from Israeli interference in nuclear talks

Iran has called on the United States to evaluate its interests independently of Israeli pressure as nuclear negotiations continue, with Tehran's top security official accusing Israel of actively attempting to derail the diplomatic process. Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, told Al Jazeera that while Tehran remains open to constructive dialogue, the negotiation scope must remain confined to nuclear issues and not extend to Iran's missile program or other domestic security matters.

Common Ground and Red Lines

Larijani acknowledged shared understanding between Tehran and Washington on the principle that Iran should not possess nuclear weapons—a position Tehran maintains it is not pursuing. However, he firmly rejected the notion of reducing uranium enrichment to zero, describing it as "impractical for a country that has already mastered this technology." He emphasized Iran's legitimate need for enriched uranium in health research and medical treatment applications. The official confirmed that Iran's missile program, being a matter of national security, would not be subject to negotiations.

Israeli Interference and Regional Cooperation

Larijani explicitly accused Israel of inserting itself into bilateral US-Iran negotiations with the intent to undermine and sabotage progress, stating: "Our negotiations are exclusively with the United States. We are not engaged in any talks with Israel." He noted that Tehran has conveyed positions to Washington via Omani mediation but has yet to receive an official response. Expressing readiness for regional cooperation, Larijani indicated Iran is prepared to work with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Türkiye to maintain stability. Reflecting on last June's 12-day conflict with Israel, he acknowledged intelligence shortcomings while noting the attack paradoxically strengthened national unity.