Iran May Reconsider Nuclear Doctrine under Existential Threats: Kharrazi

In an interview with Al Mayadeen, Kharrazi articulated Iran's stance on regional tensions, emphasizing the nation’s preparedness to respond to any escalation while expressing a desire to avoid further war.

He highlighted Iran's military capabilities and the potential for changes in its nuclear policy in response to perceived "existential threats”.

Kharrazi emphasized that Iran has showcased its deterrence capabilities through Operation True Promise II, during which it launched hundreds of ballistic missiles against "Israel", noting that in the time being, it is up to the Israelis. “If they choose to continue their hostile actions, Iran will respond accordingly,” he said.

In response to questions about potential changes to Iran's nuclear doctrine, Kharrazi indicated that such changes are possible, especially if Iran encounters an "existential threat". He asserted that Iran has the technical capabilities to produce nuclear weapons and encounters no significant obstacles in this regard. However, he emphasized that the Fatwa issued by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei serves as the sole constraint preventing Iran from pursuing nuclear armament.

The top Iranian official also mentioned that policy changes would apply to projectiles. Kharrazi noted that Iran's missile capabilities are well-known, having been demonstrated in various operations. He stated that the current focus is on the ranges of the missiles used thus far, in which Iran has considered the concerns of Western countries.

However, Kharrazi maintained that if Western nations do not acknowledge Iran's concerns, particularly regarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, Iran will then disregard the concerns of Western countries. Therefore, it is likely that Iran will develop and extend the range of its missiles, he said.

Kharrazi addressed the "unequal" war in the region, telling Al Mayadeen that it is "led by Israel, which perpetrates ethnic cleansing and the extermination of people," and is fighting those who are defending their lives, existence, and land.

He expressed hope that the war would come to a swift conclusion, asserting that "Israel" is engaging in "horrific ethnic cleansing" while mistakenly believing it has achieved victory. Kharrazi emphasized that such actions cannot be perceived as a true victory but rather as a profound violation of human rights.

He also highlighted "Israel's" recent actions in blocking the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from delivering essential supplies, stating that the agency "wants to provide water and food to the besieged people of Gaza, but they have been blocked from doing so."

The top Iranian official emphasized that this move represents "the climax of anti-humanitarian values."

He called on the international community to "wake up and exert pressure on Israel," adding, "Unfortunately, we still see the West, including European countries and the United States, continue to support such a brutal and criminal entity and defend its actions by funding it and sending weapons."

Kharrazi concluded that the implications of the situation and its eventual outcome are evident, as the will of the people and their Resistance cannot be suppressed. He asserted that both the Palestinians and Lebanese are steadfast in their determination to resist, endure this oppression, and confront these atrocities until victory is achieved.

Within the context of ceasefire negotiations, Kharrazi emphasized that Iran does not intervene, asserting that it is the Lebanese and Palestinians' right to negotiate and reach a ceasefire deal.  Moreover, he affirmed his country's support for any decision the countries make.

The Iranian official added that Iran remains committed to its previous agreements, provided that the other party also upholds its commitments. He expressed disappointment that the opposing side has not adhered to their obligations and, instead of engaging in negotiations, continues to impose sanctions on the Islamic Republic of Iran.

In the interview with Al Mayadeen, Kharrazi also spoke about Martyr Seyed Hassan Nasrallah, describing him as a "powerful, wise, brave, and popular figure" who became a significant political leader in the Islamic world.

He noted that the loss of such a great leader is, in fact, a profound loss for everyone, particularly for the Lebanese people. Kharrazi pointed out that in many liberation movements worldwide, the loss of great leaders has often been followed by the emergence of successors.

Kharazzi explained that one of Seyed Hassan Nasrallah's strategies was to prepare individuals for succession at all levels, asserting that leaders and cadres were ready to assume responsibility in various leadership roles.

Kharrazi emphasized that this policy enables Hezbollah to continue its struggle at full force today. That is why, he noted, the Israelis have not achieved their desired outcome of Hezbollah's collapse following Seyed Hassan Nasrallah's martyrdom. He pointed out that the party continues to defend Lebanon while also maintaining a strong political presence.

He also affirmed that Sheikh Naim Qassem has been active in the political arena and has demonstrated his leadership capabilities. Kharrazi congratulated the Lebanese people and the Hezbollah’s Shura Council on electing Sheikh Qassem as the successor to the martyred leader Seyed Hassan Nasrallah, expressing hope that under Sheikh Qassem's leadership, Hezbollah will continue its tasks with vigor.

The top Iranian official also discussed Iranian-Russian relations and broader regional dynamics, telling Al Mayadeen that Russia and China are "seeking to build a new international system to free themselves of Western dominance," an objective Iran upholds.

He emphasized that emerging powers, including Iran, should play a prominent role in shaping a new world order that promotes more democratic governance, away from Western colonialism.

Kharrazi clarified that the steps taken so far within the frameworks of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, and the New Development Bank all align with this vision. He pointed out that Iran is a member of these organizations and is actively working toward establishing a new world order.

He also highlighted that the agreement between Iran and Russia is ready and it encompasses all aspects of bilateral relations and cooperation. Kharrazi noted that the agreement was originally scheduled to be signed during the recent BRICS meeting in Kazan, Russia, but the Russians preferred to finalize it during a bilateral visit to emphasize its significance, which will occur soon.

Concluding his remarks, Kharrazi stated that this is Iran's strategic policy "regardless of the type of governments and existing disagreements among countries in the region." He stressed the importance of improving relations between Iran and these nations so that they can collectively work toward stabilizing security in the region.

Kharrazi explained that all neighboring countries are aware of Iran's strategic policy and are currently moving in that direction. He acknowledged that those who may not be pleased with this approach may resort to disseminating biased media narratives that do not serve regional interests.

He referenced his recent historical research regarding Bahrain, noting that once upon a time, it was part of Iranian geography and was recognized as the fourteenth Iranian province. However, he stated that Bahrain is an independent country today, and Iran officially recognizes it as an Arab nation.