Iran says nuclear energy plays a strategic role in development

Iran’s nuclear sector viewed as vital for national power, despite continued opposition and U.S. pressure to limit civilian nuclear program

TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran has reiterated the central role of nuclear energy in its national development strategy, emphasizing its peaceful applications across electricity generation, medicine, agriculture, and industry. 

The announcement came as part of a broader push by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) to reinforce the legitimacy and scope of the country’s civilian nuclear program.

Mohammad Eslami, head of the AEOI, told reporters that nuclear energy is now considered one of the core components of Iran’s national power. 

He noted that the industry not only supports the country’s energy needs but also symbolizes scientific and technological self-sufficiency.

“The nuclear industry has strengthened Iran’s position on the international stage,” Eslami said. “This naturally draws the ire of hegemonic powers, particularly the United States, which aim to curb Iran’s advancement due to our talent pool, strategic geography, and independent scientific path.”

Eslami revealed the development of a 20-year strategic document guiding the future of Iran’s nuclear energy sector. 

Crafted with input from experts and young professionals in the field, the roadmap aims to enhance domestic capabilities while maintaining compliance with international standards under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

Civilian applications of nuclear energy

Iran’s nuclear energy program has expanded far beyond electricity production. Nuclear techniques are now widely used in medical radiotherapy, cancer treatment, food sterilization, agricultural pest control, and the development of drought-resistant crops.

The AEOI has also facilitated the production of radioisotopes for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic procedures, benefitting thousands of Iranian patients annually. 

Moreover, Iran operates several nuclear research centers across the country, where scientists collaborate on peaceful technology innovations.

One of the pillars of this infrastructure is the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which Eslami described as a model of efficiency and safety. 

The facility currently generates more than seven billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year and has delivered around 72 billion kilowatt-hours to the national grid since its commissioning.

“This power plant is among the top eight in the world in terms of safety and efficiency,” Eslami said, noting its contribution to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Responding to foreign pressure

The renewed emphasis on nuclear energy comes amid ongoing calls by the United States and other Western countries for Iran to scale back its civilian program, citing concerns about potential military dimensions. 

Tehran has consistently denied such allegations, insisting that its nuclear activities remain peaceful and under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iranian officials argue that the country has the right to pursue nuclear technology for civilian purposes, as guaranteed under the NPT. 

They also highlight what they view as a double standard in Western policies that allow other nations to expand their nuclear energy sectors unchallenged.

“Our strategic goal is to become a regional leader in peaceful nuclear technology,” Eslami said. “Science and progress are not to be monopolized. The future belongs to nations that invest in knowledge and resilience.”

As part of this ambition, Iran plans to build additional nuclear power plants, expand research facilities, and boost international cooperation on peaceful nuclear applications — despite continued geopolitical pressure.