In a provocative statement on state television, Mohammad Javad Larijani, a senior official and close ally of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, declared on Monday, November 18, that Iran has the capability to achieve “military nuclear readiness” within 24 hours. “If Europeans think we can achieve nuclear military capability within 48 hours, they are mistaken—we can do it in 24,” Larijani stated, emphasizing this capability as a key deterrent. He also warned that Tehran would swiftly recalibrate its nuclear policies in response to any perceived threats or pressure, adding, “Our nuclear capability is unstoppable, and any threat will be met with a decisive response.”
This statement comes amid escalating tensions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and European nations. France, Germany, and the UK are advocating for a resolution at the upcoming IAEA Board of Governors meeting to censure Iran for its non-compliance with nuclear agreements. Tehran has consistently obstructed inspections, failed to clarify uranium traces found at undeclared sites, and enriched uranium to 60% purity—a level dangerously close to weapons-grade.
Despite Masoud Pezeshkian’s recent statements and assurances during a meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi—claiming that Tehran will never strive for nuclear weapons and that it is committed to “addressing ambiguities” in its nuclear program “within legal frameworks”—the regime’s actions tell a different story. While Pezeshkian spoke of cooperation, Tehran has consistently obstructed inspections and defied transparency requirements, as Grossi himself highlighted. This duplicity underscores the regime’s strategy of offering hollow promises to buy time while advancing its nuclear ambitions and escalating threats, as evidenced by Larijani’s remarks about achieving military nuclear readiness within 24 hours.
#Iran News in Brief
Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Iranian regime’s Atomic Energy Organization, responded to statements of the @iaeaorg Chief Rafael Grossi while showing frustration about NCRI’s nuclear revelations in the last two decades.https://t.co/eELLMe7cKR pic.twitter.com/fG30sTyNlF— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) August 23, 2022
Larijani’s remarks are the latest in a series of aggressive statements by Iranian officials showcasing the regime’s escalating nuclear posture. Earlier this year, Kamal Kharrazi, a senior advisor to Khamenei, hinted at a possible shift in Iran’s nuclear doctrine, suggesting the regime might pursue nuclear weapons if faced with an “existential threat.” In May, Fereydoon Abbasi, a former head of the Atomic Energy Organization, also alluded to Iran’s technological capacity to produce nuclear weapons, emphasizing that the country possesses the necessary materials and expertise.
Additionally, Iranian officials have used nuclear rhetoric as a tool for regional intimidation. Parliamentarian Ahmad Naderi recently advocated for testing a nuclear weapon, arguing that regional balance could only be achieved through nuclear deterrence. This rhetoric aligns with threats from IRGC officials, including veiled warnings to European nations and regional neighbors, emphasizing Iran’s willingness to retaliate against perceived aggression.
Larijani’s threats underscore Tehran’s familiar strategy of deflection and intimidation. Facing potential new sanctions from the European Union targeting its shipping industry for facilitating missile transfers to Russia, Iran is amplifying its nuclear rhetoric to stave off international pressure. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi recently warned that any resolution against Iran at the IAEA would trigger reciprocal measures, including further nuclear advancements.
#Iranian Regime Escalates #Nuclear Threats as Diplomatic Efforts and Calls for Islamic Unity Failhttps://t.co/5H710VjrCg
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) October 9, 2024
This brinkmanship has further isolated Tehran, as regional and international powers grow increasingly wary of its intentions. Reports earlier this year of failed missile and drone strikes against Israel, intercepted by coordinated defenses involving multiple nations, highlighted Iran’s technological limitations despite its belligerent rhetoric.
The regime’s threats and defiance come as its domestic and international challenges mount. Tehran faces growing unrest at home, an economy crippled by sanctions, and potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy with the return of Donald Trump to the presidency in January 2025. Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign during his previous term severely impacted Iran’s economy, and Tehran appears anxious about the possibility of similar policies being reinstated.
As the Iranian regime doubles down on its nuclear blackmail, the international community must respond decisively. Sanctions, coupled with robust enforcement of nuclear agreements, are critical to curbing Tehran’s destabilizing activities. At the same time, global powers must support the Iranian people’s demands for fundamental change, recognizing that sustainable peace in the region depends on holding Tehran accountable for its actions.
Larijani’s remarks, alongside the regime’s history of threats and defiance, are yet another reminder of the urgent need for unified and resolute action to address Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. The upcoming IAEA Board of Governors meeting must result in a strong resolution against the Iranian regime. Additionally, members of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) should activate the snapback mechanism to respond firmly to Tehran’s escalating threats and ensure it faces the consequences of its actions.
