Iran has never pursued nuclear weapons because possessing them is religiously forbidden (“haram”) under Islamic principles, according to Dr Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, the Representative in India of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In an exclusive interview with ANI, he emphasized that Iran’s nuclear activities are strictly limited to peaceful purposes, aimed at meeting humanitarian and social needs through nuclear energy.
Dr Ilahi accused certain international organizations of applying “double standards,” pointing out that Iran faces heavy sanctions and intense monitoring of its nuclear facilities, while other countries with nuclear capabilities escape similar scrutiny or criticism. He reiterated Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear development, contrasting it with what he described as selective enforcement by global bodies.
The statement comes amid ongoing international tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. In June last year, Israel and the United States reportedly targeted Iranian nuclear sites. Last month, a UN Security Council meeting on nuclear non-proliferation highlighted deep divisions: some members pushed for reinstating sanctions, while others questioned the legitimacy of discussions tied to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The JCPOA, signed by Iran along with the P5+1 (China, France, Russia, UK, US, plus Germany) and the EU, aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
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Dr Ilahi also spoke warmly about the deep-rooted historical ties between Iran and India, tracing cultural and intellectual exchanges back over 3,000 years—well before the advent of Islam. He highlighted how ancient Indian contributions in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy were studied in Iran, and vice versa. He expressed hope for strengthened collaboration, particularly through projects like the Chabahar port, and noted that Iran’s Supreme Leader consistently advocates for robust bilateral relations.
Addressing domestic challenges, the representative acknowledged economic difficulties caused by sanctions but dismissed exaggerated narratives on social media. He urged distinguishing between factual conditions—where the situation remains “under control”—and perceived chaos amplified by critics or adversaries. While some Iranians express frustration over economic pressures, others, he said, are leveraging the circumstances to advance national goals.
The remarks underscore Iran’s official stance on its nuclear ambitions while highlighting longstanding civilizational links with India and ongoing geopolitical frictions over sanctions and oversight.
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