Iran dismissed claims that it is speeding up the production of uranium close to weapons-grade levels. A government spokesperson insisted that any changes to its nuclear program would only happen with Tehran’s full involvement.
US and Russia Discuss Iran’s Nuclear Plans
Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed that Washington and Moscow recently talked about Iran’s nuclear activities. Spokesman Esmail Baghaei emphasized that Iran must approve any decisions regarding its nuclear program.
“Our Russian friends fully understand this,” Baghaei said in a briefing on Monday. His comments came after US and Russian officials met in February, marking their most extensive talks since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
Following these discussions, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Tehran. His trip fueled speculation that he had briefed Iranian leaders about his conversations with Washington. However, Iran has not officially revealed details about Lavrov’s visit.
Iran’s Political Landscape Shifts Away from the West
Baghaei’s remarks came as Iran’s government faced a political shake-up. Reports surfaced that former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif resigned from President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration. Zarif was a key figure in negotiating the 2015 nuclear deal, which limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
His resignation suggests that Iran is stepping away from diplomatic efforts with Western countries. This move follows increased US sanctions under President Donald Trump’s administration. The sanctions have put further strain on Iran’s already struggling economy.
Additionally, Iran’s parliament recently impeached Finance Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati. Hemmati had previously run for president, promoting engagement with Washington as a way to ease sanctions. However, lawmakers blamed him for Iran’s ongoing currency crisis. His removal highlights the political risks for President Pezeshkian, who had promised diplomatic outreach to reduce economic pressure.
Iran’s Uranium Production Sparks Global Concern
Iran has been increasing its production of uranium enriched to near-weapons-grade levels, according to a report from the United Nations nuclear watchdog. While Tehran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, the US and its allies fear that Iran is positioning itself to develop nuclear weapons if it chooses.
Both Israel and the US have warned that they will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. These warnings have intensified as Iran launched attacks on Israel during its ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza. The conflict has heightened tensions across the region and raised the possibility of further escalation.
Regional and Global Implications
The ongoing nuclear issue places Iran at the center of growing international concerns. While the country claims it has no intention of developing nuclear weapons, its recent actions have alarmed Western nations and regional powers. Israel has repeatedly warned that it will take military action if necessary to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities.
In the past, Iran has cooperated with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to allow inspections of its nuclear sites. However, the latest reports suggest that Iran is limiting access to key facilities, raising further doubts about its intentions. The IAEA has urged Iran to provide full transparency, but Tehran remains defiant, citing past broken agreements with Western powers.
Economic and Diplomatic Fallout
As tensions rise, Iran’s economy continues to struggle under heavy sanctions. The Iranian rial has lost significant value, leading to higher inflation and economic instability. Protests have erupted in various parts of the country, with citizens demanding government action to address economic hardships.
Meanwhile, Iran has been strengthening ties with Russia and China, viewing them as alternative partners to counter Western pressure. Both Moscow and Beijing have supported Iran’s stance in global discussions, opposing additional sanctions. However, their support may not be enough to stabilize Iran’s economy in the long term.
The international community is closely watching Iran’s next moves. The US and European nations have called for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent a crisis. However, with Iran’s recent political changes and increasing uranium production, the chances of a new agreement seem uncertain.
As the situation develops, the world waits to see whether Iran will continue its defiant stance or seek a path toward negotiations. For more updates on international affairs, visit Euro News 24.