Iran IRGC commander vows to pursue nuclear weapons until US disarms

Key Points:

• Iran’s Revolutionary Guard commander Ahmad Vahidi declared that Tehran will continue developing nuclear weapons as long as the U.S. and Israel possess them, signaling Iran’s intent to maintain its nuclear program amid ongoing negotiations.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded firmly, vowing that Israel will persist in preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, with or without a diplomatic agreement, emphasizing Israel’s security as non-negotiable.
• Experts warn that Iran may be using negotiations over reopening the Strait of Hormuz to gain concessions such as sanctions relief before addressing its nuclear program, potentially weakening U.S. leverage on nuclear restrictions.
• Analysts recommend prioritizing renewed inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of Iranian nuclear sites and linking sanctions relief to verifiable Iranian steps to ensure progress on nuclear nonproliferation.
• Reports indicate Iran seeks some control over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and demands fees from ships, a move opposed by the U.S., complicating negotiations and raising concerns about Iran’s strategic leverage.