Iran has made significant progress in its nuclear program, with the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) announcing the achievement of 150 scientific and technological milestones in the past year. AEOI President Mohammad Eslami highlighted these achievements at a ceremony in Tehran celebrating National Nuclear Technology Day. Of these advancements, 15 were in the field of radiopharmaceuticals, positioning Iran as one of the top three global leaders in this area.
Eslami specifically pointed to Iran’s groundbreaking use of alpha particles for cancer treatment as its major accomplishment, showcasing a new frontier in the medical applications of nuclear technology. The AEOI also revealed plans to generate 20,000 megawatts of nuclear electricity in the future, with the construction of new power plants in southern Iran.
While Iran claims that its nuclear program is intended for peaceful purposes like power generation and medical research, international concerns persist regarding potential military applications. Evidence such as the enrichment of uranium to levels beyond civilian needs has raised doubts, along with the discovery of undeclared nuclear facilities and materials during inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Furthermore, Iran’s progress in developing long-range ballistic missile technology capable of carrying nuclear warheads has heightened fears that its nuclear goals extend beyond peaceful intent.
Despite efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), talks have stalled since the US withdrew from it in 2018. Talks held in Vienna have shown limited progress, leaving uncertainty about Iran’s future nuclear activities.
