Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran is willing to allow verification that the country is not pursuing nuclear weapons, signaling a potential diplomatic opening amid resumed talks with the United States over its nuclear program, officials said Tuesday.
In an interview published on the Iranian presidency’s website, Pezeshkian said: “We are absolutely not seeking nuclear weapons. If anyone wants to verify this, we are open to such verification to take place.”
Pezeshkian also reaffirmed that Iran would not abandon its right to use nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes such as medicine, industry and agriculture, but insisted that it is prepared to demonstrate the peaceful nature of its program to international observers.
The comments came as indirect nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States resumed in Geneva under Omani mediation, where officials from both sides said they agreed on a set of “guiding principles” for further talks.
Iran’s foreign minister said the discussions showed cautious optimism even as core issues remain unresolved.
Tehran’s offer to permit verification reflects longstanding international concerns over its enrichment activities, which have brought Tehran close to weapons-grade fissile material levels while the U.S. and allies have pressed for robust inspection and transparency mechanisms.
The talks continue against a backdrop of regional tensions, naval drills by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard in the Strait of Hormuz, and U.S. pressure to ensure that any agreement prevents the development of nuclear weapons.
