Iran Claims Nuclear Tech at Developed Nations Level Amid Internal Strife
Iran’s AEOI chief claims nuclear progress, while hardliners criticize Zarif and Araghchi.
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Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) chief, Mohammad Eslami, claimed on Tuesday that the country has ‘reached the level of developed countries in nuclear science and technology.’ Eslami attributed this progress to the ‘scientific talent, creativity, and managerial capacity’ of Iranian scientists, asserting that attacks by Israel and the United States have not deterred Iran’s nuclear advancements.
Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions Amid International Pressure
Eslami stated that the ongoing war, which began in February, has actually strengthened Iran’s nuclear program. He said foreign suppliers were unwilling or unable to help repair damage from Israeli and U.S. airstrikes, forcing the AEOI to ‘develop and manufacture domestic alternatives.’ Eslami reiterated the Iranian regime’s stance that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes, including ‘improving lives, strengthening national capabilities, and advancing development.’
Internal Criticism and Political Tensions
Meanwhile, former Iranian foreign minister and vice president Mohammad Javad Zarif faced criticism from regime hardliners for suggesting that obtaining nuclear weapons might not be worth the trouble. Zarif remarked, ‘If anyone thinks nuclear weapons can provide deterrence, just look at Israel.’ This statement sparked debate, as critics pointed out that nuclear weapons are not a deterrent against terrorism, which targets civilian populations.
Hardliners Target Zarif and Foreign Minister Araghchi
Iranian hardliners accused Zarif of treason for expressing doubts about Iran’s policy of developing terrorist proxies in the Middle East. They also criticized current Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for meeting with U.S. officials without authorization from the Supreme Leader. Thirty-five Iranian lawmakers reportedly signed a motion to impeach Araghchi for his ‘recent mistake in New York,’ referencing his meeting with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff at the U.N. General Assembly in September.
Source: Breitbart
