Former Qatari PM: Ukraine example shapes Iran’s nuclear stance

Former Qatari Prime Minister Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani has stated that Iran is unlikely to abandon its nuclear program, citing security concerns shaped in part by the example of Ukraine.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, he said Tehran views its nuclear ambitions as essential to preserving state sovereignty and ensuring long-term survival.

“One Iranian official once told me: ‘Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons — and look what happened to it,’” he noted, presenting the comparison as a key argument influencing Iran’s strategic thinking.

According to Jassim, Iran also takes into account the nuclear capabilities of other states in the region and beyond.

“Iran as a state sees that Israel and Pakistan have nuclear weapons, even if officially they claim otherwise or do not acknowledge it. I think that is ultimately what Iran will come to. Whether in 20 years or in a few years, they will achieve it,” he said.

By Tamilla Hasanova