Media: IAEA found no evidence of Iranian nuclear weapons, Putin says

Russian President Vladimir Putin has underscored that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has found no evidence that Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons, reaffirming Moscow’s backing for Tehran’s right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

In an exclusive interview with Sky News Arabia, Putin stated, "Iran has repeatedly stated that it does not seek to develop nuclear weapons. There are no signs of nuclear weapons development, nor any evidence of it, according to the IAEA."

The Russian president stressed his country’s readiness to support Iran’s civilian nuclear ambitions. 

"We believe that Iran has the right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, and we are ready to provide the necessary support," Putin said, adding that some details remain to be negotiated within the framework of ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program.

Commenting on rising tensions between Tehran and Tel Aviv, Putin urged both sides to show flexibility and seek diplomatic solutions. 

"Flexibility must be shown in the negotiations by Iran and Israel as well. There are ways and means to find solutions to this issue,” he said.

Putin reiterated Moscow’s firm stance against the spread of weapons of mass destruction.

"The position of the Russian Federation is that we are against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by any country in the world, including Iran," he said, highlighting Iran’s own resolution banning the use of nuclear weapons as a significant step that should be taken seriously.

He concluded by noting that Moscow has consistently conveyed to Israeli leadership that Iran is not pursuing nuclear arms, and stressed the importance of continued dialogue to alleviate regional tensions and promote collective security.

By Sabina Mammadli