Nuclear statement from Iran

Ali Shamkhani, a political advisor to Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, made significant remarks regarding allegations that his country is developing nuclear weapons. Visiting the Nuclear Industry Exhibition held at the Iran University of Science and Technology in Tehran, Shamkhani reacted to accusations made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

"Iran has never pursued nuclear weapons and never will," said Shamkhani, emphasizing that his country is resolutely defending its legal rights at both political and technical levels. Arguing that Iran acts transparently in its nuclear program, Shamkhani stated, "We are committed to our international obligations, but we will not bow to the pressures of global powers that go back on their word."

In an interview with Fox News, US Secretary of State Rubio had argued that "Iran is ultimately trying to reach a nuclear weapon," and that policies of pressure should be increased.

STALEMATE IN NUCLEAR NEGOTIATIONS  

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), signed in 2015 regarding Iran's nuclear program, had entered into force with the US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany. However, negotiations reached a stalemate when the US withdrew from the agreement in 2018 under the administration of then-President Donald Trump. During this process, Iran increased its uranium enrichment level to 60 percent. Efforts to revive the negotiations remain inconclusive.

News Source: 12punto