Iran’s nuclear chief said the country could resume uranium enrichment at higher levels if sanctions remain in place and negotiations with European powers do not move forward. The warning comes as talks over Iran’s nuclear program remain deadlocked.

The statement adds fresh pressure to an already tense standoff between Tehran and Western governments over sanctions relief and nuclear limits. It also underscores how little progress has been made in efforts to restart diplomacy.

Iran’s leadership has long used its nuclear program as leverage in negotiations, while critics argue the government continues to escalate risk without offering clear concessions on transparency. The latest warning suggests Tehran is prepared to push further if economic pressure continues.

For ordinary Iranians, the stalemate carries real costs: ongoing sanctions, inflation, and uncertainty around whether the country’s isolation will deepen. With diplomacy stalled, the prospect of renewed escalation threatens both regional stability and civilian welfare.