Could an Iran nuclear deal be possible with intact infrastructure?

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An Iran nuclear deal is possible if its nuclear infrastructure remains untouched.

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has indicated that an agreement with Western powers regarding Tehran's nuclear program could be achievable, provided that the nation's nuclear infrastructure is not compromised. This statement comes amidst a prolonged impasse in negotiations aimed at reviving the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Khamenei reiterated Iran's long-standing position that the Islamic Republic has never pursued the development of nuclear weapons, citing religious principles.
Conditions for a Deal

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that "There is nothing wrong with the agreement (with the West), but the infrastructure of our nuclear industry should not be touched." This condition underscores Iran's insistence on preserving its nuclear capabilities as a prerequisite for any potential deal. The 2015 nuclear agreement, which Iran is seeking to revive, had previously limited its uranium enrichment activities in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions. However, the pact has been in disarray since the United States withdrew in 2018 and reinstated sanctions, prompting Iran to subsequently exceed the deal's original restrictions.
Iran's Stance on Nuclear Weapons

Khamenei reaffirmed Iran's official stance that the Islamic Republic has never sought to build a nuclear bomb, attributing this to religious beliefs. He asserted that accusations of Tehran pursuing nuclear weapons are false and that Western powers are aware of this. This declaration aligns with Iran's consistent messaging on the peaceful nature of its nuclear program.
Engagement with the IAEA and Domestic Law

The supreme leader advised Iranian authorities to continue their cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), within the established framework of safeguards. However, he also cautioned against succumbing to what he described as the IAEA's "excessive and false demands." Furthermore, Khamenei emphasized the importance of respecting a 2020 law passed by Iran's parliament, which mandates the suspension of IAEA inspections and an increase in uranium enrichment if sanctions are not lifted. This law, he noted, must be adhered to regarding the provision of access and information to the IAEA.

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Could an Iran nuclear deal be possible with intact infrastructure?

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