Iran rejects new US nuclear talks, downplays impact of strikes
Pakistan, June 27 -- TEHRAN - Iran denied on Thursday any plans to resume nuclear talks with the United States following a 12-day war with Israel. Iranian officials also dismissed claims about severe damage caused by recent US strikes on their nuclear sites.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called speculation about new negotiations "unfounded" and said Tehran has no set plans to start talks. This statement came after lawmakers passed a bill suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog amid rising tensions.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised Iran's "victory" over Israel and criticized US President Donald Trump for exaggerating the effects of the airstrikes. He insisted the strikes caused "nothing significant" to Iran's nuclear program, rejecting Washington's claims of severe setbacks.
Meanwhile, President Trump said key Iranian nuclear facilities were "obliterated" by US forces. He dismissed reports suggesting Iran removed enriched uranium before the attack, saying it was too dangerous and heavy to move quickly.
Despite US and Israeli claims of success, leaked intelligence suggests the damage may only delay Iran's nuclear progress by months. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the strikes a "historic win," warning Iran against rebuilding its nuclear capabilities.
The conflict has caused heavy casualties, with Iran reporting over 600 civilian deaths from Israeli strikes, and Israel confirming 28 deaths from Iranian missile attacks. Both sides continue to assert their strength amid ongoing tensions in the region.
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