Tehran: Iran has no requirement for nuclear weapons given its recognized capabilities in the nuclear sphere, stated Behrouz Kamalvandi, the official representative of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, during a press briefing reported by Trend News Agency.

According to Trend News Agency, Kamalvandi emphasized that Iran’s potential and prowess in nuclear technology are well acknowledged internationally. He pointed out that in the contemporary global context, nuclear weapons do not offer preventive solutions to conflicts. Despite internal discussions and pressures within certain factions in Iran about the possibility of developing nuclear arms, Kamalvandi reiterated the nation’s stance, anchored by a directive from Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, which prohibits the pursuit of nuclear weapons.

The dialogue on Iran’s nuclear ambitions comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Israel. The Iranian parliament’s call to the country’s Supreme National Security
Council to reconsider its defense doctrine in light of these tensions underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.

This internal debate occurs while the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from the Comprehensive Joint Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May 2018 continues to resonate. The U.S. exit from the agreement led to the reinstatement of sanctions against Iran, which prompted Tehran to adopt a strategic approach in its nuclear program to mitigate these challenges. This strategy included halting some commitments under the JCPOA, notably suspending the Additional Protocol, which consequently reduced the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) ability to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities by 20-30 percent.

The unfolding scenario highlights the delicate balance Iran seeks to maintain between advancing its nuclear capabilities for peaceful purposes and mitigating international concerns regarding nuclear proliferation.