Iran Stands Firm: Upholds Nuclear Rights Amidst Global Tensions

In a recent interview with Al-Masirah, Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), condemned the recent attacks on Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities. He stated that these actions mark an unprecedented escalation in targeting a nation’s scientific capabilities. This situation emphasizes the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and the international community’s response.

Eslami articulated that the nature and timing of these assaults suggest that the United States and its allies have entered a new phase of aggression against Iran’s scientific advancements. He described the targeting of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure as a “clear crime” against a nation steadfast in its right to pursue peaceful nuclear knowledge despite facing external threats and pressures.

He emphasized that Iran possesses substantial evidence regarding the attack’s nature, the involved parties, and their motives. “Tehran will not renounce its rights,” Eslami asserted, adding that no external force can impose its will on the Iranian nation.

During an international conference titled “International Law Under Attack: Aggression and Defense,” held on Sunday, Eslami reiterated Iran’s commitment to its nuclear program. He stated that Iran would continue its strategic course regardless of any resolutions that may arise from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors session.

Eslami pointed out that the recent assaults on Iranian nuclear sites were the first instances in history where facilities under IAEA safeguards were targeted. “This represents a clear violation of international law,” he remarked, noting that the IAEA Director General and the Board of Governors did not condemn these strikes, which showcases their failure to uphold international norms.

He criticized the ongoing coercive practices and pressure exerted on Iran, stating that the approach used against the nation is consistent with previous patterns of double standards. “Iran’s course has been transparent from the beginning,” he affirmed, insisting that the country will persist in its activities despite external pressures. “We will continue on our [chosen] path,” Eslami stated, highlighting the necessity of ending the double standards in international oversight and diplomacy.

Eslami also discussed Iran’s relationship with the IAEA, mentioning, “Our policy in working with the Agency is that the ten-year term of Resolution 2231 has now expired as of October 2025. Iran has fulfilled all its obligations. The Agency should only monitor our program within the framework of safeguards.”

On June 13, the situation escalated dramatically when Israel launched an unprovoked attack against Iran while diplomatic negotiations regarding nuclear issues were ongoing between Washington and Tehran. This aggression triggered a 12-day conflict that resulted in the deaths of at least 1,064 individuals in Iran, comprising military commanders, nuclear scientists, and numerous civilians.

Moreover, the United States also participated in the conflict by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites, which constitutes a serious violation of international law. In retaliation, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted strategic locations across the occupied territories and the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, the largest American military installation in the West Asia region.

On June 24, through successful retaliatory operations against both the Israeli regime and the United States, Iran managed to impose a halt to the aggression.

• Iran’s Nuclear Rights: Eslami emphasized Iran’s unyielding stance on its right to peaceful nuclear technology.
• International Law Violations: The attacks on Iranian sites are deemed unprecedented and in violation of international norms.
• Response to Aggression: Iran has vowed to retaliate against any further assaults on its sovereignty.
• Diplomatic Relations: Iran’s relationship with the IAEA remains complex, particularly concerning oversight and compliance.

The current geopolitical landscape surrounding Iran’s nuclear program remains fraught with challenges and complexities. The commitment of Iranian officials to uphold national rights and scientific advancement continues to be a central theme in the dialogue surrounding international nuclear agreements and compliance.