Iran has dismissed reports claiming that discussions about its nuclear program are happening without its involvement. These comments come amid concerns that Iran is increasing its uranium production to near weapons-grade levels.
Iran Responds to Nuclear Program Reports
Iran’s Foreign Ministry addressed the issue after media claimed the United States and Russia had been discussing Iran’s nuclear program without its participation. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for the ministry, firmly stated that any actions on Iran’s nuclear program would only take place with Tehran’s agreement.
Baghaei said during a press briefing on Monday, “The nuclear issue has been discussed between Russia and the US, but any action regarding our nuclear program will only occur with Iran’s consent.” He added that Russia understands this position, underlining Tehran’s demand for direct involvement in decisions about its nuclear activities.
US-Russia Talks and Their Impact on Iran
In February, the U.S. and Russia held significant talks, the highest-level engagement between the two countries since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. During this period, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Iran. Speculation arose that Lavrov briefed Iranian officials about the discussions with Washington regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
Despite these talks, Iran insists on direct involvement in any decision-making. Tehran’s firm response reflects its concerns about foreign influence on its nuclear activities.
The Role of Mohammad Javad Zarif
Meanwhile, Mohammad Javad Zarif, a key architect of Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal, announced his resignation. Zarif played a central role in negotiating the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a historic agreement between Iran and six world powers. The deal had limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
Zarif’s resignation marks a significant shift in Iran’s approach to diplomacy. His departure comes as relations between Iran and the West have deteriorated. After former US President Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018 and imposed severe sanctions, the agreement began to unravel. Zarif’s exit signifies the end of a diplomatic era for Iran.
Political Changes in Iran
In addition to Zarif’s resignation, Iran is experiencing political turmoil. On Sunday, the Iranian parliament impeached Finance Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati. Hemmati had expressed willingness to negotiate directly with the US, which likely contributed to his removal. His dismissal highlights internal divisions within Iran’s leadership over how to handle relations with the West.
Hemmati’s impeachment occurred at a time when President Masoud Pezeshkian was facing increasing pressure from hardline factions. Pezeshkian, elected last year with promises to ease sanctions through diplomacy, is now grappling with shifting political dynamics in Iran.
Iran’s Accelerating Nuclear Activities
The international community is concerned about Iran’s nuclear program. A report from the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog revealed that Iran is speeding up its production of uranium close to weapons-grade levels. While Iran insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, many countries, particularly the United States, remain skeptical.
Iran’s progress in uranium enrichment has raised fears that it could develop a nuclear weapon. These concerns have intensified tensions in the Middle East, where both the US and Israel have vowed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Growing Tensions in the Region
Iran’s nuclear activities have made the country a focal point of global security discussions. The US and Israel have warned that they will take action to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran, however, maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and that it has the right to pursue nuclear technology under international law.
The situation is further complicated by ongoing regional conflicts. Recently, Iran launched attacks on Israeli targets, escalating tensions. These actions have heightened fears of further conflict, making it more difficult for diplomats to find a resolution to Iran’s nuclear issue.
What’s Next for Iran?
The international community is now grappling with how to address Iran’s nuclear activities and political unrest. Both the US and Israel continue to pressure Iran to limit its nuclear ambitions. Iran, in turn, insists that its program remains peaceful.
Iran’s relationship with Russia will be critical moving forward. Moscow has been a strong ally of Tehran, and its support could help Iran avoid further isolation. However, with the US and Israel taking a firm stance on Iran’s nuclear activities, the path forward remains uncertain.
For more updates on this developing situation, visit New York Mirror.