Iran Nuclear Doctrine Review Is a National Demand, Cleric Says

Background on the Debate

The discussion over Iran's nuclear doctrine has gained public attention following years of strained relations with Western powers and the collapse of previous agreements. Haj Ali Akbari framed the current debate as a consequence of those experiences, saying the Iranian people are raising the issue with greater awareness and insight.

The interim Friday prayer leader urged relevant officials to conduct further assessments so that resulting proposals could be submitted to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, who holds final authority over state policy matters.

Public Support and Survey Data

According to the cleric, more than 70 percent of respondents in some previous surveys had favored a review of the nuclear doctrine. He said that since the issue was raised publicly, a wave of support and requests has emerged from various segments of society, including university students, school students, professors, intellectuals and members of professional associations.

Regarding US engagement, Haj Ali Akbari said experience has shown that when the Americans speak of negotiations and send messages, a more serious danger or conspiracy may be underway than when they openly threaten war.

What Comes Next

The cleric said any final decision made by the Leader would be followed, stressing that everyone stands under his banner. No official change to Iran's nuclear doctrine has been announced, and further assessments by officials and specialists are expected before any proposal is formally submitted.