ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Iran has firmly stated it will not relinquish its nuclear capabilities, with senior officials insisting that the country’s nuclear programme remains integral to its national sovereignty, scientific advancement, and peaceful energy development.
Araghchi: “We Will Not Abandon Our Nuclear Technology”
Iranian Foreign Minister *Abbas Araghchi* underscored the nation’s unwavering stance during a press briefing on Tuesday, declaring:
“We have worked extremely hard to acquire nuclear technology. Our scientists have made great sacrifices in pursuit of nuclear capabilities.”
He added that the Iranian people have endured significant challenges over the years, especially under the pretext of nuclear proliferation concerns, including war and sanctions.
“Our people have also endured many hardships in this journey. Under the pretext of nuclear weapons, war was imposed upon us,” he said.
AEOI: Iran’s Nuclear Programme Is “Deeply Rooted”
Reinforcing the government’s position, *Behrouz Kamalvandi*, spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI), stressed that the country’s nuclear infrastructure cannot be dismantled by external pressure.
“They must understand that this industry has taken root within our nation. It cannot simply be uprooted,” Kamalvandi stated.
He further noted:
“Given the capabilities and potential we possess, the advancement of this industry is essential. It cannot be stopped.”
Kamalvandi also reiterated that Iran’s nuclear programme is strictly peaceful and operates under the watch of the *International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)*.
Response to US Airstrikes on Nuclear Facilities
These strong statements came in the wake of *unauthorised U.S. military strikes* on three key Iranian nuclear sites—*Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—all of which are under IAEA supervision. Following the attacks, U.S. President **Donald Trump* claimed the operation aimed to “destroy” Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
In response, Araghchi maintained that Iran’s programme is based on indigenous science and cannot be erased by force:
“Iran’s nuclear energy programme is based on indigenous knowledge and cannot be eliminated through bombing.”
Restoration Plans Underway, Says Iran’s Nuclear Chief
According to *Mohammad Eslami, head of the AEOI, damage assessments are ongoing, and Iran has initiated steps to restore its nuclear facilities. Speaking to **Mehr News*, Eslami emphasized continuity in the programme:
