We do not want a nuclear bomb, Iranian president says ahead of US talks

Iran’s president said Wednesday the country has never sought nuclear weapons, as officials marked National Nuclear Technology Day with a showcase of domestic achievements, days ahead of renewed talks with the United States.

“We do not want a nuclear bomb and never have,” President Masoud Pezeshkian said at a ceremony in Tehran. “We seek peace, security and dialogue — but dialogue rooted in dignity and independence. We will not retreat from our scientific and technological achievements.”

The president spoke at an exhibition of nuclear developments, where he inaugurated several new projects. He criticized Western powers for what he called leading the world into “war and destruction under the banner of civilization and peace,” and insisted Iran would not allow others to dictate its path.

Atomic Energy Organization head Mohammad Eslami said Iran was entering a new phase of nuclear development, including the production of medical radioisotopes and advancements in agriculture and power generation.

“Despite all threats and sabotage, our scientists are moving forward stronger than ever,” Eslami said.

In a separate statement, the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission warned that “any threat to the peaceful nuclear industry will face a serious, decisive and destructive response.” The statement reiterated Iran’s right to nuclear technology under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

The comments come as Iranian and US negotiators prepare to meet Saturday in Oman for indirect talks focused on Iran’s nuclear program and potential sanctions relief. Tehran has signaled openness to diplomacy but remains wary of US intentions.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the talks are “a new opportunity for diplomacy” and the sole focus will be confirming the peaceful nature of Iran’s program in exchange for lifting what he called “cruel sanctions.”

The upcoming talks have drawn attention amid rising regional tensions and diverging views in Washington and Tehran on the path forward.

Iran's nuclear program has advanced to a stage where it could potentially enrich sufficient uranium for several nuclear fission weapons within weeks.

Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile remains under monitoring and verification by the UN’s nuclear watchdog, but the agency has no longer daily access to the Natanz and Fordow enrichment facilities.