Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani made a bold statement on National Nuclear Technology Day as he oversaw the launch of advanced centrifuges at the Natanz nuclear plant, reaffirming Iran’s commitment to nuclear non-proliferation despite recent breaches in the 2015 deal.
In response to former president Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has gradually violated restrictions on its atomic activities. This has led to tough negotiations in Vienna this week as both nations seek a path to full compliance with the accord.
A live video broadcast on state TV captured Rouhani’s order to inject uranium gas into advanced centrifuges, a move likely to be viewed as another breach of the agreement. The ceremony also highlighted Iran’s progress in various fields such as medicine, power, agriculture, and energy.
Rouhani emphasized the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear activities, stating, “We continue to be committed to our pledge to the NPT and assure the world that our nuclear program is for non-military purposes.”
The ongoing talks in Vienna, with the involvement of EU officials and the US, aim to restore the balance of the nuclear deal – Iran’s compliance with restrictions in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions.
With the US reneging on the deal under the Trump administration and Iran responding with breaches, the negotiations in Vienna hold significant importance in determining the future of Iran’s nuclear program and international relations.
