Iran regime official criticizes U.S. 'maximalist' terms for deal to end war

Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh rejected the U.S. push for Iran to give up its stockpile of enriched uranium.

Published: April 19, 2026 9:49am

An Iran regime official said the country is not prepared to engage in direct negotiations with the United States again, a senior Iranian diplomat said, citing what Tehran views as unrealistic demands from Washington.

Later, President Trump wrote on Truth Social that talks would take place in Pakistan on Monday. 

Speaking on the sidelines of a diplomatic forum in Antalya, Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Iran remains open to diplomacy but will not participate in face-to-face talks under current conditions. 

He described U.S. positions as “maximalist” and said they have hindered progress.

A key sticking point is Washington’s suggestion that Iran relinquish its stockpile of enriched uranium. 

Khatibzadeh rejected that idea, calling it unacceptable and emphasizing that such a demand would not be considered in negotiations.

His comments come after President Donald Trump said the United States should recover Iran’s nuclear material, referring to it as “nuclear dust” located at damaged facilities. Iranian officials have consistently denied they would surrender their nuclear assets.

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