WANA (Mar 23) – Iran will not yield to Western pressure, affirmed Behrouz Kamalvandi, Deputy for International, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs and spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI). He stressed that the Islamic Republic remains steadfast in defending its rights.

 

Advancing the Nuclear Industry Despite External Pressures

Kamalvandi highlighted that one of the AEOI’s key missions has been to accelerate Iran’s nuclear advancements while countering negative propaganda against the country.

 

He stated that Iran is committed to expanding its nuclear capabilities across all dimensions and reshaping perceptions about its program despite years of misinformation.

 

He noted that the international affairs division has worked to integrate Iranian scientists into global research initiatives while utilizing international collaborations, particularly with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to bring scientific advancements into Iran.

 

In a Nowruz interview with the AEOI’s Public Diplomacy and Information Center, Kamalvandi reviewed his department’s 2024 achievements and outlined plans for the year ahead, expressing hope for global peace and security in 2025.

 

Scientific Progress and International Recognition

Reflecting on the past year, Kamalvandi reported significant milestones in Iran’s nuclear sector, starting in 2024 with around 160 technological breakthroughs.

 

Among the highlights was the International Conference on Nuclear Science and Technology held in Isfahan, attended by IAEA officials, including Director General Rafael Grossi. He remarked that Iran’s showcased progress at the conference astonished and impressed the IAEA representatives.

 

“Our role is to support the work of Iran’s nuclear experts and ensure they have international platforms to present their achievements,” Kamalvandi explained. He added that Iran actively engages in technical cooperation with the IAEA to incorporate global scientific developments into its domestic programs.

 

Iran’s Contribution to Global Science

Kamalvandi emphasized that Iranian scientists’ participation in IAEA forums facilitates valuable knowledge exchange. “Scientific progress should serve all humanity, not be monopolized. Iran’s history and Islamic teachings have always promoted the sharing of knowledge for the advancement of others. The world owes much to Iranian scientists, and we continue to uphold this legacy,” he said.

 

Countering Misinformation and Political Pressures

He condemned the international accusations against Iran’s nuclear activities despite its extensive compliance and transparency. “Iran undergoes one of the most rigorous inspection regimes, yet false claims persist. No other country faces such scrutiny,” Kamalvandi stated.

 

He noted that Iran has taken various legal, diplomatic, and media measures to counter these misrepresentations. “We have consistently challenged the baseless allegations, particularly those propagated by the Zionist regime,” he asserted.

 

Strengthening International Partnerships and Nuclear Advancements

Kamalvandi described 2024 as a year of both diplomatic and technological achievements. Iran expanded its nuclear cooperation with China and Russia, made significant progress in reactor and power plant development, and enhanced scientific exchanges with other countries. He stressed that Iran’s engagement with the IAEA further reinforces its legitimate stance.

 

Iran Firm in Defending Its Rights

Regarding the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Kamalvandi stated that Iran endured unprecedented sanctions and pressure campaigns. “They tried to portray Iran as the violator, while in reality, we responded to the other parties’ failure to uphold their commitments,” he said.

 

He noted that Iran remained patient for a year after the U.S. exit, hoping for a resolution. “Fifteen consecutive IAEA reports confirmed Iran’s compliance. When diplomatic efforts failed, we exercised our legal right to reduce some commitments. These steps remain reversible, provided Iran’s rights are respected,” he added.

 

Kamalvandi reiterated Iran’s determination: “We stand firm in defending our rights. Western powers have repeatedly tested Iran’s resolve and should realize that pressure tactics are ineffective and often counterproductive.”

 

Concluding with a historical perspective, he stated, “No one can address a great nation like Iran with the language of force. We have faced immense challenges throughout history and have always emerged resilient.

 

There is no doubt that we will overcome the current pressures as well. A nation unwilling to stand for its rights will surely fail. Despite the costs, we are committed to securing our rightful place—and victory will be ours.”