Iran Affirms Right to Peaceful Nuclear Energy under NPT, Questions US Diplomatic Intentions
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, has reaffirmed the Islamic Republic’s entitlement to utilize nuclear energy for peaceful ends, in alignment with Article IV of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). He emphasized the nation’s unwavering commitment to maintaining this right “under any circumstances.”
In an interview with Al-Jazeera TV Channel on Wednesday, Baghaei addressed questions surrounding Trump’s assertion that the United States’ strikes had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program.
He stated unequivocally that Iran’s entitlement to peaceful nuclear energy is unwavering. Citing Article IV of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), he emphasized that Iran retains the right to utilize nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and is resolute in safeguarding this right irrespective of the circumstances.
During a NATO conference on Wednesday, Trump informed reporters that the United States and Iran are set to engage in discussions “next week.”
Trump stated, “I don’t care if I have an agreement or not.” He emphasized that the only demand remains consistent with prior requests, which is the complete elimination of nuclear capabilities.
In contrast to assertions made by Trump, a leaked preliminary report from the Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) reveals that the attacks early Sunday morning resulted in only minor damage to the facilities located in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, Iran. Khaled Barakat has commented on the pressure exerted by Trump and Netanyahu on Western media outlets that spotlight the shortcomings of their efforts against Iran’s nuclear program.
The report highlighted that Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile remains untouched, contrary to Trump’s assertion that the country’s nuclear program had concluded.
Iran has rejected allegations regarding the “obliteration” of its nuclear sites and pledged to persistently advance its peaceful nuclear energy initiatives.
On Tuesday, Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesperson for Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to advancing its nuclear program, despite facing acts of aggression targeting its peaceful nuclear facilities.
In response to Trump’s assertions of involvement with Iran, Baghaei condemned the United States for adopting what he described as “contradictory” strategies toward Tehran. This criticism comes in the wake of Washington’s apparent endorsement of Israeli actions against the Islamic Republic, all while indirect negotiations between Iran and the U.S. continue.
The Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson articulated concerns about inconsistent statements from the American establishment over the last few months. According to the spokesperson, while there has been discourse on diplomacy, the U.S. has simultaneously authorized Israeli actions against Iran.
He stated that Israeli authorities initiated hostilities against Iran merely 48 hours prior to a planned meeting between Iran and the United States in Muscat, Oman. Meanwhile, Russia’s representative to the United Nations vehemently criticized the US and Israeli attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
The speaker emphasized the erosion of trust, attributing it to the inconsistency between their words and actions. He called for accountability for the aggressions they have committed against his country, particularly highlighting their cooperation and collusion with Israel.
The government acknowledges that its citizens expect decisive action, urging the international community to prioritize holding aggressors accountable.
In response to questions regarding Iran’s readiness to persist in negotiations with the United States, Baghaei remarked, “They have undermined diplomatic efforts. From Iran’s perspective, however, we maintain that diplomacy is an ongoing process.”
He stated that even at the peak of the imposed conflict with Iran, the nation was involved in negotiations with various parties to preserve lives and ensure its national security.
Baghaei highlighted a significant concern, stating that while some parties advocate for dialogue and diplomacy, their simultaneous acts of aggression have exacerbated the situation, leading to a growing array of challenges and contradictions.
Regarding Iran’s prerequisites for potential future negotiations, it was stated that the nation is presently concentrating on ensuring its security following the conclusion of what has been termed the Israeli aggression.
The Iranian spokesperson emphasized a commitment to addressing public anger over recent events, stating there would be no comment on conflicting statements related to diplomacy or negotiations at present. The spokesperson highlighted the need to assess the sincerity of other parties’ diplomatic intentions, suggesting such discussions could be strategies to escalate regional tensions and further affect the country.
