Iranian President Commits to Revitalizing Nuclear Program

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to revitalizing its nuclear program. He announced plans to rebuild facilities damaged in recent attacks while rejecting threats from the United States and Israel.

Iran’s Nuclear Program Under Scrutiny

In June, US and Israeli forces targeted multiple Iranian nuclear sites, including the Natanz uranium enrichment complex and Isfahan power plant. The attacks followed heightened tensions after Iran enriched uranium to 83% purity earlier that year, exceeding levels required for civilian use.

Rebuilding the Damaged Facilities

During a visit to the nuclear agency, Pezeshkian stated that Iran would not be deterred by the destruction of these facilities. He emphasized, “Destroying buildings and factories will not create a problem for us. We will rebuild and with greater strength.”

• Key Facilities Damaged:
  • Natanz Uranium Enrichment Complex
  • Isfahan Nuclear Power Plant

Iran’s Stance on Nuclear Weapons

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapons program. Instead, he highlighted its intention to use nuclear capabilities for peaceful purposes, such as public health and addressing diseases.

Ongoing Tensions with the West

The atmosphere between Iran and Western nations has been fraught for over twenty years, following the discovery of covert enrichment sites in 2003. This revelation led to a series of sanctions and strained diplomatic talks, particularly after the US withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018.

UN Sanctions and Diplomatic Efforts

In September, the UN restored sanctions against Tehran after Britain, Germany, and France initiated a “snapback” mechanism over Iran’s alleged non-compliance. Meanwhile, Oman has offered to mediate and urged both Washington and Tehran to return to the negotiating table.

• Recent Developments:
  • Oman hosted five rounds of US-Iran talks in the previous year.
  • Israel’s attacks occurred just before the sixth round of negotiations.

The future of Iran’s nuclear program remains uncertain as diplomatic relations continue to fluctuate amid ongoing threats and confrontations.