Tehran escalates nuclear program amid western pressure

Published November 23rd, 2024 - 09:59 GMT
Tehran escalates nuclear program amid western pressure
An Iranian journalist reports tours the water purifying facility at the Bushehr nuclear power plant in the Iranian port town of Bushehr, 1200 Kms south of Tehran, on February 25, 2009. Iran's first nuclear power plant, which was undergoing tests on February 25 after construction was completed by Russia, has been delayed for more than three decades. AFP PHOTO/BEHROUZ MEHRI (Photo by BEHROUZ MEHRI / AFP)

ALBAWABA - Iran claims that the activation of its sophisticated centrifuges is a reaction to the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) criticism of its nuclear program's lack of cooperation.

On Sky News Arabia, Al-Vefagh editor-in-chief Mokhtar Haddad said the decision was made due to Western pressure, mainly from the U.S. and Europe. Haddad said Iran cooperates with the IAEA but refuses to honor Western agreements.

Tehran explained the move as a response to "politicized" IAEA measures, with Haddad highlighting that the criticism serves political purposes rather than technical ones. Iran maintains transparency and allows IAEA monitoring of its facilities despite the escalation.

Haddad accused Western nations of double standards by targeting Iran's nuclear program but disregarding Israel's, which is not IAEA-supervised. He said these contradictions made sustainable agreements hard.

The IAEA decision coincides with regional tensions, since Iran supports Gaza and Lebanon organizations. Haddad claimed that this unnerves Western nations and affects their nuclear position.

Haddad underlined that U.S. withdrawal and Europe's failure to fulfill obligations are eroding hopes of salvaging the 2015 nuclear deal. Tehran is open to negotiations but also considering other nuclear defense methods.

Haddad cited Israeli Defense Minister threats that Iran's nuclear program could be ended around 2025. In the absence of international assistance, Iran will adopt “decisive measures” to fight.

Haddad warned that Western pressure could escalate regional tensions and destabilize a fragile situation. He concluded that Iran will protect its nuclear rights if required.
 

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