Iranian Supreme Leader's fatwa still in effect amid regional tensions US officials say

An official representative of the US National Intelligence Director's office has stated that Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has not rescinded his 2003 fatwa (religious edict) prohibiting the development of nuclear weapons.

"We believe that the Supreme Leader has not made a decision to resume the nuclear weapons programme that Iran halted in 2003," the official representative said, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

This conclusion from the US intelligence could clarify why the US opposes any Israeli strikes against Iran's nuclear programme in response to Iran's missile attack on October 1.

Since 2003, Iran has adhered to a fatwa issued by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which prohibits the production of nuclear weapons on the grounds that it contradicts Islamic principles. 

While the discussion about revising the defence doctrine is rooted in the 2003 fatwa, the actions of what he termed the “fake and evil Zionist regime” (referring to Israel) necessitate expert reassessment.

Neither the US nor European nations can effectively manage this “rabid dog”. The defence doctrine review aims to explore whether Iran should enter the nuclear discourse or consider alternative options for deterrence.

By Naila Huseynova