Iran hints at the possibility of changing nuclear doctrine amid tensions with Israel.
Iran’s former foreign minister Kamal Kharrazi raised concerns about further escalations in the Middle East conflict after making comments regarding Tehran’s nuclear doctrine.
An aide to Ayatollah Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, stated that the country has no plans to pursue nuclear weapons as per its long-held doctrine.
However, while speaking to Iranian media, Kharrazi issued a strong warning that the doctrine could be altered if Iran’s existence is threatened.
He remarked that recent remarks by military officials suggest reviewing nuclear policies and moving away from past declarations if Israel chooses to attack Iranian nuclear sites.
In 2022 as well, Kharrazi commented that Iran has the technical know-how for atomic bombs, but a religious decree bars its development.
The latest statement comes against the backdrop of continuing fighting between Israel and Hamas, with Iran-backed militant groups involved as well.
In what may be seen as a veiled threat, Kharrazi stated Iran’s deterrence would change in case the Zionist regime strikes nuclear facilities, hinting at possible consequences.
As tensions remain high due to ongoing retaliatory strikes since April, concerns are rising about whether the arch-rivals may drag the region into a wider nuclear crisis. Most countries seek de-escalation through diplomacy.
