New York, United States — Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, asserted Sunday that the nation’s nuclear enrichment efforts are irrevocable. He emphasized that these activities are intended for peaceful energy production, aligning with the principles of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
In an interview with CBS News, Iravani stated, “The enrichment is our right, an inalienable right,” while expressing Iran’s willingness to engage in negotiations. However, he rejected the notion that any form of demand could comprise genuine dialogue. Iravani highlighted that “unconditional surrender is not negotiation,” indicating Iran’s steadfast position in ongoing discussions.
The ambassador also underscored that the current political climate does not favor new negotiations, particularly following recent escalations. While he emphasized Iran’s readiness for talks, he characteristically pointed out that aggression undermines a conducive environment for diplomatic dialogue. Iravani further denied any accusations regarding threats to Rafael Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, or its inspectors, who some Iranian officials claim have supported actions against Iran.
Despite IAEA inspectors being in Iran, Iravani noted that they do not have access to the country’s nuclear facilities at this time. When pressed about calls for aggression against Grossi, Iravani stated that there are no threats, although he confirmed that Iran’s parliament has halted cooperation with the IAEA. He insisted that the inspectors are safe but also indicated that they have been denied access to certain sites, asserting, “our assessment is that they have not done their jobs.”
Regarding the stalled diplomatic processes, Iravani criticized the United States for dictating terms to Iran, referencing the previous administration’s demands for “unconditional surrender.” He stated, “If they want to dictate us, it is impossible for any negotiation with them,” reiterating Iran’s need for an equal bargaining position.
Just days prior, Iravani suggested to a news outlet that Iran could be open to transferring stocks of enriched uranium if a suitable agreement with the U.S. is reached. He clarified that transferring enriched uranium, whether at 20% or 60%, would not constitute a red line for Iran. He noted that these materials could remain under IAEA oversight in Iran, but stressed that any negotiations would have to respect Iran’s right to domestic uranium production, a point previously rejected by the U.S.
These comments come amid increasing pressure from Western nations for Iran to return to negotiations concerning its nuclear ambitions. This follows recent military actions from the U.S. targeting various sites in Iran, prompting debates about the effectiveness of these strikes. While former President Donald Trump claimed the strikes had thoroughly dismantled key facilities, other reports suggested that damages were not as extensive as anticipated.
Grossi addressed the ongoing situation, noting the potential for Iran to ramp up its uranium enrichment in the coming months, affirming that existing capacities remain intact. The IAEA chief remarked on the seriousness of the current damage but also highlighted the possibility of Iran resuming production quickly.
In an unrelated development, Iran’s military leadership expressed skepticism regarding recent ceasefire agreements with Israel. Iran’s armed forces chief of staff, Abdolrahim Mousavi, communicated to officials in Saudi Arabia that they doubt Israel will honor ceasefire commitments following recent hostilities. He warned that any further aggression would prompt a strong response from Iran, emphasizing Iran’s stance that they did not initiate hostilities but will react robustly to perceived threats.
The ongoing exchange of accusations, military maneuvers, and diplomatic stalemates continues to set the stage for potential conflicts in the region, raising questions about the future of Iran’s nuclear program and its international relations.