Iran to rebuild nuclear sites “with greater strength”

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has vowed to rebuild the country’s damaged nuclear facilities “with greater strength” following U.S. airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities in June, reports Reuters.

The airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities targeted several sites that Washington claimed were part of a weapons development program.

Iran announced on October 18th that it is no longer bound by the restrictions set under the 2015 nuclear agreement, formally marking the end of the deal that sought to curb its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

During a visit to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Pezeshkian told state media that the attacks would not halt the country’s progress. “Destroying buildings and factories will not create a problem for us,” he said. “We will rebuild, and with greater strength.”

The June strikes marked a sharp escalation in tensions between Tehran and Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump warned that he would order further attacks if Iran attempted to restart the extensively damaged nuclear facilities.

The United States has long accused Tehran of using its nuclear program as a cover for developing nuclear weapons, allegations Iran denies.

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran’s nuclear work is intended for peaceful purposes, including medicine and energy production. “It’s all intended for solving the problems of the people — for disease, for the health of the people,” he said.

Pezeshkian’s remarks are likely aimed at demonstrating resilience to domestic audiences, as opposed to sending a threating message to Washinton. His visit, alongside senior nuclear officials, underscored Iran’s determination to maintain and advance its nuclear capabilities despite external pressure.

The airstrikes and subsequent rhetoric have heightened fears of renewed confrontation in the region. Following the strikes in June, Trump has stated that he is in “no rush” to strike a nuclear deal with Iran.

While Pezeshkian insisted that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons, his pledge to rebuild could complicate future negotiations. With tensions running high, the future of Iran’s nuclear program remains uncertain.

Reuters, Maghrebi.org