Khamenei’s aide says transferring enriched uranium out of Iran is 'off the table'

Ali Shamkhani, a senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, said transferring Iran’s enriched uranium abroad is off the table, warning that Tehran is prepared for a potential war and would strike Israel if the United States attacks.

“We are prepared for a possible war,” Shamkhani told Hezbollah-affiliated broadcaster Al Mayadeen. “If the US attacks, we will certainly strike Israel.”

Shamkhani added that transferring Iran’s enriched uranium to another country was “definitely off the table.”

Commenting on talks expected on Friday between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi in Turkey, Shamkhani said negotiations would initially be indirect but could quickly move to direct talks if there was an atmosphere of mutual understanding.