Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization chief Mohammad Eslami has made strong remarks regarding the country’s nuclear program, asserting Tehran’s sovereign right to protect and enrich uranium. His comments come after recent strikes by Israel and the United States over suspected uranium stockpiles. Speaking at an event commemorating the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, Eslami emphasized that safeguarding nuclear fuel is essential, especially in the context of ongoing US-Iran ceasefire discussions.
Eslami also noted that, despite the importance of this right, it has not been formally acknowledged in international negotiations. The United States has reportedly been reluctant to include Iran’s enrichment program in talks. With planned ceasefire discussions in Islamabad this weekend, Eslami’s remarks underline Iran’s insistence on protecting its nuclear capabilities as part of any dialogue with Washington.
Although both countries have agreed to a temporary ceasefire, Eslami’s statements highlight potential obstacles to lasting negotiations. He warned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to a prolonged conflict. This comes amid previous threats from former US President Trump, who had warned of further strikes if the Strait of Hormuz remained blocked, creating uncertainty in the international community about regional stability.
Both Iran and the US are also presenting themselves as victors in the month-long conflict leading up to the ceasefire. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised “Operation Epic Fury,” claiming the Iranian military suffered heavy damage. Iran, however, countered that Washington ultimately accepted ten key Iranian conditions, with President Masoud Pezeshkian posting multiple updates emphasizing Tehran’s strategic successes during the crisis.