TEHRAN: Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urged continued cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the UN nuclear watchdog, while cautioning against yielding to “bullying” based on “unfounded claims.”
Khamenei made these remarks during a meeting with Iranian nuclear scientists, experts, and officials. During his speech on Sunday, the supreme leader emphasized the importance of maintaining cooperation with the IAEA within the framework of safeguards regulations. He acknowledged that agreements could be reached in certain areas but emphasized that the existing infrastructure of Iran’s nuclear industry should not be compromised.
Khamenei also stated that Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization should not succumb to pressure or unfounded demands based on bullying tactics, without specifying the specific demands or claims being referred to.
Iran’s nuclear program has long been under scrutiny by Western powers, resulting in economic sanctions that have severely impacted the country’s economy. The 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers provided Iran with relief from international sanctions in exchange for limitations on its atomic program.
However, after the United States unilaterally withdrew from the agreement in 2018 and reimposed sanctions, Iran gradually stepped back from its commitments under the deal, including restrictions on uranium enrichment. Efforts to revive the agreement have so far been unsuccessful.
In late May, after months of discussions regarding traces of nuclear material found in undisclosed sites, the UN agency announced progress and closed the file. However, the agency also noted Iran’s significant increase in its stockpile of enriched uranium in recent months.
Iran Denies Intention to Develop Nuclear Weapons
Iran has consistently denied any intention to develop nuclear weapons, maintaining that its nuclear activities are entirely peaceful. Khamenei reiterated this denial on Sunday, emphasizing that Iran’s actions are in line with its Islamic principles. He stated that if Iran had intended to acquire a nuclear weapon, it would not have been possible to stop it, as evidenced by the country’s continued nuclear progress.
The comments by Iran’s supreme leader highlight the country’s commitment to cooperation with the IAEA while asserting its right to a peaceful nuclear program. The situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear program remains a topic of international concern, and efforts to find a diplomatic resolution continue.
