Iran Issues Warning on Nuclear Development Amid US Threats
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Synopsis
An adviser to Iran's supreme leader warned that if the US or Israel attack Iran citing nuclear concerns, Iran would be forced to develop nuclear weapons. This response comes amid tensions and threats from US President Trump regarding military action against Iran.
Key Takeaways
- Iran may develop nuclear weapons if attacked.
- US and Israel's threats are escalating tensions.
- Larijani cites religious prohibitions on nuclear weapons.
- Military action against Iran would have serious consequences.
- Negotiations may still be possible under certain conditions.
Tehran, April 1 (NationPress) An adviser to Iran's supreme leader cautioned that should the US or Israel launch an attack on Iran citing nuclear fears, the nation would be pushed to advance its nuclear weapons program. Ali Larijani, an adviser to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, made this statement in reaction to the recent threats directed at Tehran by US President Donald Trump and Israeli officials, as reported by Xinhua via the official news agency IRNA.
Larijani emphasized that Iran is under a religious directive from Khamenei that forbids the development of nuclear weapons. However, he remarked, "If the United States commits an error, Iran will be compelled to pursue nuclear weapons due to the demands of its populace."
He asserted that military attacks on Iran would yield repercussions, indicating that Iran's nuclear program could not be dismantled through bombardment.
Larijani mentioned that any potential indirect discussions with the US would focus on comprehending each other's requirements and securing reciprocal concessions regarding the nuclear matter.
In an interview with NBC News, Trump threatened to initiate "unprecedented military strikes" against Iran if it did not engage in discussions over its nuclear program.
"If they refuse to make a deal, there will be bombings unlike anything they have witnessed before," he stated, claiming that US and Iranian officials are "communicating," though without providing specifics.
These comments followed a letter Trump dispatched to Iranian leaders in early March through the United Arab Emirates, suggesting direct negotiations concerning Tehran's nuclear activities.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed on Sunday that Tehran had declined the offer for direct talks but remained open to the idea of indirect discussions.
He reiterated that while Iran is not averse to negotiations per se, Washington must first address its prior "misconduct" and work on rebuilding trust.
