Iran's new reformist president, Masoud Pezeshkian, reiterated on Monday that Tehran's enrichment of uranium to near-weapons grade levels was a response to the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal with world powers. Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran's intention is not to pursue nuclear weapons but to meet its technical and scientific needs within the framework of the agreement.
Currently, Iran is enriching uranium up to 60% purity, a step away from weapons-grade levels. Despite Iran's insistence on the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, Western nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency have raised concerns about Iran's past military nuclear activities.
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has signaled openness to negotiations with the U.S., leading to indirect talks facilitated by Oman and Qatar. Pezeshkian's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, played a significant role in negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal.
Amid escalating tensions with Israel, Iran has vowed to maintain its ballistic missile arsenal for national security. Pezeshkian emphasized the need for military power to safeguard Iran's people and territory, calling for disarmament in the region, including Israel. He warned against threats and sanctions, asserting Iran's right to defend itself.
The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has further strained relations between Iran and Israel, with both sides engaging in retaliatory actions. Iran's threats of retaliation following the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran underscore the volatile situation in the region.
As Iran navigates complex geopolitical dynamics, Pezeshkian's administration faces the challenge of balancing national interests with international expectations. The future of Iran's nuclear program and its relations with key players, including the U.S. and Israel, remain uncertain, highlighting the delicate diplomatic landscape in the Middle East.
