Tehran: Iran has expressed readiness to engage in discussions regarding the level of uranium enrichment and the size of its stockpile, contingent upon the recognition and respect of its national rights as outlined in international treaties, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei made these remarks during an interview with America's PBS News, addressing various issues, including the diplomatic path with the United States following the resumption of nuclear and sanctions-removal talks in Oman. He highlighted that the negotiations would primarily focus on the nuclear issue, emphasizing Iran's adherence to international law as a member of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and its commitment to producing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
Baqaei dismissed long-standing accusations from Israel about Iran's nuclear ambitions, reiterating Tehran's stance that nuclear weapons are not part of its defense doctrine. He described Israeli claims of Iran nearing nuclear weapon production as "a big lie" and emphasized that uranium enrichment is a component of Iran's peaceful nuclear program. The spokesperson reiterated Iran's willingness to discuss enrichment levels, provided that its rights under international treaties are upheld.
Addressing questions about US military threats and changes in Washington's tone following indirect talks with Tehran in Muscat, Baqaei commented on the persistent nature of such threats over the past five decades, labeling them as unlawful and unjustified. Despite these challenges, he noted the courage of the Iranian people in facing these threats and their commitment to self-determination since the 1979 revolution.
Baqaei expressed hope for a possible compromise with the United States through result-oriented negotiations, despite existing distrust stemming from past US attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities. Furthermore, he addressed recent unrest in Iran, attributing it to foreign-backed interference, specifically pointing to Israeli Mossad-affiliated agents allegedly hijacking peaceful protests and inciting violence.
Source: Islamic Republic News Agency