Iran’s President Threatens to Rebuild Nuclear Facilities ‘Stronger Than Before’
Iranian President Masoud Pashakian has issued a warning that the destruction of the nation’s nuclear facilities will not hinder its progress, claiming that they will be rebuilt even stronger. These assertions were made during a recent tour of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, where he emphasized that all of the country’s nuclear activities are aimed at resolving civilian issues rather than military applications, stating, “We view nuclear bombs as forbidden.”
Ongoing Tensions and Military Developments
Pashakian’s statements come amid heightened regional tensions that have persisted since the recent “12-day war.” In response to queries regarding the resumption of negotiations, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani confirmed that the Foreign Ministry had received messages on this matter but stressed that details would be released “at the appropriate time.”
Iran is gradually restoring its military capabilities while preparing for potential future confrontations.
A recent extensive report by CNN, based on European intelligence sources, revealed that Iran has significantly increased its shipments of key compstartnts for solid-fuel rocket production from China over the past month. These rockets were heavily used during the conflict against Israel, causing widespread destruction. Despite the reimposition of international sanctions at the end of September, Iran continues to procure heightened amounts of ammonium perchlorate, a crucial material in rocket fuel production. Notably, the existing sanctions framework contains a loophole that allows China to continue these shipments since ammonium perchlorate is not classified as an illegal substance.
Analysts estimate that since the sanctions were reinstated, Iran has received between 10 to 12 maritime shipments totaling around 2,000 tons-sufficient for manufacturing approximately 500 rockets-indicating the initial stages of capacity restoration.
Israel’s Response and Monitoring
Israeli sources report that developments in Iran’s military capabilities are being closely monitored. Analysts indicate that the Israeli government has conveyed strong messages against these shipments following the end of hostilities. Observations suggest that prior to the conflict, Iran possessed around 2,700 missiles, and it is believed that they currently maintain at least half of that number, with intentions to bolster their arsenal in preparation for future confrontations with Israel.
Although Iran has been actively working to revive its ballistic missile program, significant compstartnts, such as planetary mixers required for solid-fuel rocket production, are still missing. Recent reports do not indicate any efforts by Iran to rehabilitate its uranium enrichment program or restart its nuclear weapon development initiatives, which had progressed prior to Israeli military interventions.
Assessing the Nuclear Threat
Former Mossad chief Yossi Cohen stated in a recent interview with Fox News that the joint operation by Israel and the United States completely dismantled key nuclear sites in Iran and halted uranium enrichment activities. He confirmed that since June, Iran’s nuclear status has changed significantly, as they are no longer enriching uranium, calling this a major achievement. Cohen also emphasized that Iran is acutely aware of Israel and the U.S.’s capabilities, hinting at a potential for renewed military action if Iran resumes its enrichment activities.
Dr. Col. (Res.) Uri Nissim Levy, President of the Global Nuclear Forum, echoed concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, warning that satellite imagery indicates increased activity at formerly targeted sites. He cautistartd that Iran could potentially achieve a nuclear weapon in a matter of weeks rather than months or years. Levi noted that while Israeli actions have effectively reduced some threats from Iran, completely stopping their efforts to restore their nuclear program is improbable.
As global leaders react to these developments, Levy criticized the recent announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the resumption of nuclear testing activities, deeming it a dangerous escalation that could jeopardize international stability.
In a world where nuclear capabilities remain a pivotal point of geopolitical tension, the statements from Iran’s leadership underline ongoing challenges and the complexities surrounding diplomatic negotiations and military preparedness in the region.