Accra:Director of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Mohammad Eslami, has criticized the United States for its perceived double standards regarding nuclear technology. He questioned why the U.S. seeks to expand its nuclear capabilities while attempting to restrict Iran from accessing similar technology.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Eslami articulated his views during the international conference 'Ecocide The Silent War Crime.' He highlighted the diverse applications of nuclear technology, including its role in medicine, scientific research, industry, and environmental protection. Eslami challenged the legal rationale for denying Iran access to nuclear technology when the U.S. actively incorporates nuclear power and artificial intelligence into its national security strategies.
He further criticized the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for not condemning attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, which are under its safeguards. Eslami stated that recent strikes also targeted facilities crucial to public health and food safety, including refineries, petrochemical plants, and irradiation centers.
Eslami provided specifics about the nuclear materials targeted in these attacks, noting that one irradiation system contained 17 cobalt-60 sources. Additionally, 117 radioactive sources were present at various petrochemical companies, 146 nuclear-source packages at industrial equipment manufacturers and steel plants, and 183 sources were used in research systems at several universities. He labeled these attacks as war crimes.
He also criticized France for not honoring nuclear cooperation agreements post-Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, despite Iranian funds being used to establish French nuclear facilities.
Eslami emphasized the environmental benefits of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Iran's only operational nuclear power station, which has prevented about 90 million tons of carbon emissions. He affirmed Iran's commitment to generating 20,000 megawatts of nuclear electricity despite challenges.
He also condemned attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran's nuclear and industrial sites, warning of their potential impact on public health, food security, and the environment. Eslami honored those killed in recent conflicts, particularly the 168 children at Shajareh Tayyebeh School in Minab, describing the tragedy as an indelible mark on the U.S. and Israel.
Eslami defended Iran's military actions, asserting that Iranian forces target enemy military personnel in line with Islamic teachings, rather than civilians. He accused Washington of supporting terrorism and manipulating media, citing the bombing of Iran's state broadcaster as indicative of a world domination agenda.
The conference, hosted by Iran's Department of Environment, explored the legal, humanitarian, and environmental impacts of war crimes and environmental destruction in Iran and Gaza.