Tehran: Iran's nuclear chief has asserted that the core issue of the West with Iran is not nuclear weapons but the country's scientific and technological advancements. Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), highlighted that nuclear science is a crucial driver of progress and power. He made these remarks during a joint meeting of Iran's nuclear medicine, radio-oncology, hematology, and oncology associations.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Eslami emphasized that Iran is "duty-bound to move at the frontiers of knowledge," identifying nuclear sciences and technologies as fields that drive progress and enhance power. He suggested that these areas have long been dominated by major powers, and the real issue is Iran's presence at this level. Eslami expressed optimism that increased collaboration among specialists could alleviate public suffering and boost healthcare progress.

Eslami credited Iran's advancements to the efforts of young scientists and the guidance of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. He noted that despite changing administrations and policies, the country's commitment to these scientific goals remains unwavering. Recent developments in international relations have, he claimed, revealed the baseless nature of accusations against Iran's nuclear sector.

Referring to recent UN Security Council meetings, Eslami pointed out that the statements from Britain, France, and Germany reveal an intent to halt Iran's progress. He cited Israel's missile attacks on Isfahan, specifically targeting a facility producing radiopharmaceutical fuel, as evidence of hostility towards technologies that benefit the populace directly. Without nuclear medicine and domestic nuclear resources, Eslami warned, Iran's healthcare sector would suffer deprivation due to a lack of material provision from external sources.

Eslami also referenced a US national security document, noting that it lists artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and nuclear science as pillars of progress. He argued that if such technologies are deemed necessary for the US, they should be considered essential for other countries as well.