Iran has rejected claims by US President Donald Trump that it would hand over enriched uranium, insisting its stockpile will remain inside the country amid ongoing tensions.
By Imran Malik | April 18, 2026
Iran has firmly stated that its stockpile of enriched uranium “will not be transferred anywhere,” dismissing claims by US President Donald Trump that Tehran had agreed to hand over nuclear material to Washington.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told state television that the issue of transferring uranium “has never been raised” in ongoing negotiations, directly contradicting Trump’s remarks on Truth Social.
Trump had earlier claimed that the United States would obtain all nuclear material following past military actions, referring to uranium allegedly affected by US B-2 bomber strikes in 2025.
Talks focused on conflict, not uranium
Baqaei clarified that recent negotiations between Tehran and Washington are centered on ending hostilities rather than nuclear transfers.
“The previous negotiations focused on the nuclear issue, but now discussions are about ending the war,” he said, adding that sanctions relief and compensation for war damages remain key priorities for Iran.
Reports suggesting a possible deal involving the release of $20 billion in frozen Iranian funds in exchange for uranium were also dismissed by Tehran.
Rising tensions over blockade
The spokesman also criticized Washington’s naval blockade of Iranian ports, warning it would be met with an “appropriate response.” He stressed that decisions regarding the Strait of Hormuz are determined “in the field,” not through political statements.
Nuclear stockpile in focus
Iran continues to hold significant quantities of enriched uranium, including material enriched up to 60 percent — close to weapons-grade levels — as well as stockpiles enriched to 20 percent.
According to past estimates by the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran possessed around 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent prior to US strikes in 2025.
Since then, uncertainty has surrounded the status of these reserves, with Tehran limiting access to international inspectors at sites damaged during US and Israeli operations.
A widening dispute
The latest exchange highlights deepening mistrust between Tehran and Washington, with both sides offering sharply conflicting narratives as diplomatic efforts continue under heightened regional tensions.
