“We have no intentions to, but will if we are forced” — Iran

Iran has issued a stern warning to its adversaries, the United States and Israel, suggesting a potential shift in its nuclear policy if its existence is threatened.

Kamal Kharrazi, an adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, delivered the message on Thursday, May 9, raising concerns over the possibility of Iran pursuing nuclear weapons if provoked.

While affirming that Iran currently has no intention to build a nuclear bomb, Kharrazi emphasized that under certain circumstances, such as threats to its existence, the country might be compelled to reconsider its military doctrine. His statements come amid heightened tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel.

“We have no decision to build a nuclear bomb but should Iran’s existence be threatened, there will be no choice but to change our military doctrine,”

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, has previously issued a fatwa, or religious edict, banning the development of nuclear weapons, citing Islamic principles. However, Kharrazi’s remarks suggest a potential departure from this stance, particularly in response to perceived threats.

The recent exchange of hostilities between Iran and Israel further underscores the precarious situation in the region.

In April, a suspected Israeli strike on Iran’s embassy compound in Damascus resulted in casualties, including senior members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iran retaliated with a significant missile and drone attack against Israel, escalating tensions further.

Iran’s uranium enrichment activities have also been a point of contention. The country has been enriching uranium to levels nearing 60 percent purity, raising concerns about its nuclear capabilities.

Although Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised alarms about the potential for weaponization.