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Iran Will Respond Decisively to JCPOA Violation

President Hassan Rouhani addressing the UN General Assembly in New York on Sept. 20
President Hassan Rouhani addressing the UN General Assembly in New York on Sept. 20

President Hassan Rouhani said Iran is intent on abiding by the 2015 nuclear agreement with major powers, but stressed that the infringement of the international deal by any party to the deal would meet Iran's "decisive" and "resolute" response.

He made the remarks in a speech to the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, in a reference to threats by US President Donald Trump who has often claimed that he could decide to walk away from the landmark accord.

"I declare before you that the Islamic Republic of Iran will not be the first country to violate the agreement; but it will respond decisively and resolutely to its violation by any party.

"It will be a great pity if this agreement were to be destroyed by 'rogue' newcomers to the world of politics. The world will have lost a great opportunity. But such unfortunate behavior will never impede Iran's course of progress and advancement."

He noted that by violating its international commitments, the Trump administration is indeed undermining its own credibility along with the international confidence in negotiating with it or accepting its word or promise.

"The ignorant, absurd and hateful rhetoric, filled with ridiculously baseless allegations, that was uttered before this august body yesterday [Trump's pugnacious remarks against Iran in his speech at UNGA on Tuesday], was not only unfit to be heard at the United Nations—which was established to promote peace and respect between nations—but indeed contradicted the demands of our nations from this world body to bring governments together to combat war and terror."

Addressing leaders and/or their representatives from 193 nations, Rouhani said the effective diplomacy that helped eventually settle the lingering nuclear standoff between the big powers and Iran should be utilized to address other global problems.  

"The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action can become a new model for global interaction based on mutual constructive engagement between all of us.  We have opened our doors to engagement and cooperation."

The newly reelected president reassured the world that Tehran has chosen to stay on the path of moderation and engagement with the comity of nations.

"I declare before this august global assembly that moderation is the inclination as well as the chosen path of the great Iranian people."

"The path of moderation is the path of peace, but a just and inclusive peace not peace for one nation, and war and turmoil for others."

Responding to US allegations that Iran's policies and actions undermine regional stability and security, Rouhani said, "Today, we are on the frontlines of fighting terror and religious extremism in the Middle East; not for sectarian or ethnic reasons, but for ethical, humanitarian and strategic reasons."

"Iran does not seek to restore its ancient empire, impose its official religion on others, or export its revolution through the force of arms," he told the annual meeting of world leaders.

The president reiterated that on the back of the nuclear deal, Iran is well-placed to promote its economic collaboration with the outside world.

"Iran, enjoying the world's largest gas and oil reserves, is prepared to engage in long-term cooperation to advance global energy security. We are eager to expand international transit corridors through joint ventures in sea, rail and road infrastructure projects." 

Published on Sep 20

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