TEHRAN, IRAN: In a move that underscores its commitment to advancing nuclear capabilities, Iran has announced the commencement of the construction of a new nuclear research reactor in Isfahan. The revelation comes shortly after the announcement of a nuclear power plant complex in the south of the country.
Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, stated, “Today, the process of pouring concrete for the foundation of the reactor started at the Isfahan site,” as reported by state media IRNA. The Isfahan Nuclear Research Center, already housing three reactors, will now witness the development of a new 10-megawatt research reactor designed to serve as a robust neutron source.
The applications of the new reactor range from fuel and nuclear material tests to the production of industrial radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals, as outlined by IRNA. The facility aligns with Iran’s stance on peaceful nuclear activities, vehemently denying any pursuit of nuclear weapons capabilities.
Iran’s nuclear endeavors have faced significant challenges since 2018, following the United States imposing biting sanctions. The sanctions were triggered by then-President Donald Trump withdrawing from a landmark nuclear deal that had granted Iran sanctions relief in exchange for limitations on its nuclear activities.
Despite external pressures, Iran continues to emphasize the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. However, the Director-General of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, expressed frustration in January over Iran’s “restricting” cooperation with the agency.
In a separate development, Mohammad Eslami unveiled plans for a nuclear power plant complex in Sirik, located on the Strait of Hormuz. The complex, comprising four individual plants with a combined production capacity of 5,000 megawatts, is part of Iran’s ambitious goal to achieve 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power production by 2041.
While Iran faces challenges and scrutiny on the global stage, its strategic nuclear initiatives signal a steadfast commitment to advancing its capabilities for peaceful purposes. The construction of the Isfahan reactor and the ambitious plans for the Sirik power plant complex underscore Iran’s determination to navigate its nuclear trajectory on its own terms.
