Iran Declares Missile Programme ‘Non-Negotiable’ Ahead Of Fresh US Nuclear Talks

 

Iran has ruled out any discussion of its missile programme as the United States and Tehran prepare for another round of nuclear negotiations, drawing a firm line ahead of renewed diplomatic engagement.

A senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Shamkhani, made the country’s position clear on Wednesday while speaking during events marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.

“The Islamic Republic’s missile capabilities are non-negotiable,” Shamkhani said, according to Iranian state media.

The statement comes days after American and Iranian diplomats held indirect talks in Oman, as Washington continues to increase its naval presence in waters near Iran — a move seen as part of broader regional pressure.

The United States has repeatedly pushed to expand nuclear discussions to include Iran’s missile arsenal. However, Tehran has indicated it is only willing to negotiate limits on its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief, rejecting any attempt to include its missile programme in the talks.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reiterated the same position on Sunday, stating that missile issues have never been part of the negotiations and will not be introduced in future discussions.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected in Washington for talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, where he is reportedly set to press for any future Iran agreement to include restrictions on Tehran’s missile capabilities — a proposal Iran has already dismissed.