Iran highlights nuclear progress, rejects political pressure

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
4 Dec 2024 09:29
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Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) spokesman, Behrouz Kamalvandi, announces the production of high-value heavy water and accuses adversaries of politicizing its nuclear program for external agendas.

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In this July 7, 2019, file photo, the spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran Behrouz Kamalvandi speaks in a press briefing in Tehran, Iran (AP)

Spokesman for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Behrouz Kamalvandi, announced significant advancements in the country's nuclear capabilities, highlighting the production of high-quality heavy water valued at $1,200 per liter.

Kamalvandi revealed that Iran had promptly activated centrifuges in response to the recent decision by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors. He criticized the international monitoring of Iran's nuclear program, describing it as politically motivated and influenced by specific external agendas.

"The enemies of Iran have complicated the nuclear file and exploited it for political purposes," Kamalvandi stated, accusing adversaries of using the issue as a tool for pressure.

Reiterating Iran’s long-standing position, he said, "Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons, but other parties aim to stir chaos and controversy."

Iran could militarize nuclear program amid pressures: Araghchi

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi cautioned on Thursday that ongoing Western threats to reimpose United Nations sanctions could push Iran's nuclear file toward militarization.

Speaking in Portugal, Araghchi underscored that such pressure might drive internal debates in Iran toward pursuing nuclear weapons—a course previously excluded from the country's security strategy.

During his remarks, Araghchi criticized the European Troika (France, Germany, and the UK), accusing them of adopting a confrontational stance against Iran. He also highlighted Tehran's decision to activate thousands of advanced centrifuges as a direct response to what he described as "nonconstructive policies" from these nations.

"Iran previously possessed the capability and knowledge to develop nuclear weapons, but this option has never been part of our strategic framework," Araghchi stated. He added that Iran has no current intention to enrich uranium beyond 60% but emphasized the need for equitable collaboration to resolve the nuclear issue honorably.