Iran Declares Use of Peaceful Nuclear Energy a ‘Non-Negotiable’ Right

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, reiterated at a weekly press conference in Tehran on Monday that the country’s stance and the fundamental framework guiding its negotiations with the United States remain steadfast and unchanged.

Iran firmly upholds its stance on the peaceful pursuit of nuclear energy, a legal entitlement under international agreements. According to a statement, adherence to treaty obligations should be mutual, suggesting that Iran must also gain advantages from any accord.

He dismissed what he described as “fallacious” arguments concerning Iran’s nuclear energy program, asserting they lack scientific or factual validity. He emphasized that, as a signatory of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Iran maintains its right to enrich uranium.

Iran and the United States, with Oman acting as mediator, have engaged in three rounds of discussions in Muscat and Rome, which took place on April 12, 19, and 26. These talks are focused on reaching an agreement regarding Iran’s nuclear program and lifting sanctions imposed on Tehran.

Both parties have expressed satisfaction with the progression of negotiations, commending the discussions as “positive” and “progressing.”

A fourth session of discussions initially planned for May 3 in Muscat was deferred due to “logistical and technical reasons,” according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Omani and American intermediaries, in collaboration, have agreed to defer the fourth round of discussions due to logistical and technical challenges, as stated by Araghchi on X this Thursday.

**Iran Expresses Willingness to Convene Talks with E3**

Iran has stated its readiness to engage in discussions with the E3 group, comprising the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. This development signals a potential avenue for dialogue amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The precise topics and timing for the proposed meeting have yet to be confirmed.

Baghaei has stated that Iran has long been prepared to engage in discussions with the European trio, consisting of France, Germany, and Britain.

The scheduled meeting between political directors in Rome was cancelled after high-level talks between Iran and the US were postponed, he confirmed.

The Iranian spokesman highlighted their preparedness for such a meeting, stressing the importance of reaching a consensus on scheduling.

In addressing inquiries regarding the latest actions and comments made by French officials concerning Iran, Baghaei extended an invitation to France and other European nations, urging them to adopt a constructive role in any forthcoming negotiation processes.

He stated that certain stances adopted by France lack grounding in international law and contradict its principles, underscoring that “They are not logically acceptable.”

The spokesperson reiterated that indirect discussions between Iran and the United States are confined solely to addressing nuclear issues and the lifting of sanctions, cautioning that any unrelated demands could prove unhelpful.

In response to inquiries regarding speculation about differences between Iran and the United States, Baghaei affirmed that the Islamic Republic has consistently demonstrated its commitment to continuing negotiations through its actions.

The fourth round of discussions between Tehran and Washington has been postponed following a proposal from Oman. Both parties accepted the postponement, as stated by the Iranian foreign minister.

Iranian diplomat stated that the nation is currently awaiting Oman’s perspective on the future and potential continuation of the negotiations.

Baghaei addressed inquiries regarding the cancellation of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s anticipated visit to Azerbaijan, stating that any visit by officials from the Israeli government to any nation is considered “ominous and unfortunate.”

He stated that Israeli officials have committed egregious acts against the Palestinian people, asserting that it is imperative for the international community to intervene and stop the normalization of these offenses.

A statement from Netanyahu’s office announced the cancellation of his scheduled visit to Azerbaijan, citing a “tight political schedule” as the reason. However, Israeli media outlets have suggested the cancellation is linked to Turkey’s decision to deny overflight permission for the prime minister’s official aircraft.

In the event of an assault, Iran considers any third country involved as a ‘legitimate target’.

Baghaei elaborated on the comments made by Iran’s Defense Minister, Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh, regarding the potential targeting of American military bases in the region should any offensive action be taken against Iran.

The defense minister underscored Iran’s strong brotherly ties with regional nations, highlighting that Tehran’s foreign policy is rooted in principles of good neighborliness and fostering friendship with all countries in the region.

Baghaei emphasized that it is incumbent upon all nations to avert actions by a third party targeting another state. He asserted that if any actions are launched from a country’s territory against Iran, that location would become a legitimate target for Iran.

In the unveiling ceremony of Iran’s newest ballistic missile, called Qassem Basir, Nasirzadeh stated that Iran has never initiated a war and has no intentions of doing so in the future.

He cautioned that the nation would take resolute action in retaliation if faced with aggression.

In the face of potential military aggression from the United States or Israel, the Iranian minister declared that Iran would respond by targeting the interests, bases, and personnel of these nations wherever it is considered essential.