Iran warns against war, denies seeking nuclear weapons
Photo Credit: OFFICE OF THE IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER/WANA
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed that Iran is not pursuing “nuclear weaponry” and cautioned US President-elect Donald Trump against actions that could lead to conflict, during a televised interview with NBC News on Tuesday.
“I do hope that Trump will conduce to peace in the region and the world not, conversely, contribute to bloodshed or war,” Pezeshkian said, just days before Trump’s return to the White House.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high, with no formal diplomatic ties for nearly 45 years. Trump, during his campaign, hinted at potential US support for Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
“We will react to any action. We do not fear war, but we do not seek it,” Pezeshkian warned, addressing the possibility of military action against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi revealed that European powers were serious about resuming negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.
The 2015 nuclear deal, which included the US, France, Britain, Germany, and other powers, lifted sanctions on Tehran in exchange for limiting its nuclear activities.
However, the US unilaterally exited the deal in 2018 under Trump’s administration, reinstating heavy sanctions, prompting Iran to gradually roll back its commitments.
Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s stance: “We do not seek to create nuclear weaponry or armament. However, they accuse us of seeking the manufacturing of a bomb.”
When questioned about future talks with Trump, Pezeshkian expressed doubt. “The problem we have is not in dialogue. It’s in the commitments that arise from talks … the other party did not live up to its promises and obligations,” he stated.
