On March 18, 2026, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated in an interview with Al Jazeera that Iran's nuclear doctrine is unlikely to change significantly, reiterating the country's stance against developing nuclear weapons as previously outlined in a fatwa by the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
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Summary
On March 18, 2026, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated in an interview with Al Jazeera that Iran's nuclear doctrine is unlikely to change significantly, reiterating the country's stance against developing nuclear weapons as previously outlined in a fatwa by the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He noted that the new supreme leader has not yet publicly expressed his views on the matter, urging observers to wait. Araqchi also emphasized the need for a new protocol for the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route. He made these comments while addressing leadership stability following the death of Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, asserting that all pillars of Iran's system remain in place. The remarks come amid longstanding accusations from Western countries, including the U.S. and Israel, that Iran seeks nuclear weapons, which Tehran denies, maintaining its nuclear program is for civilian purposes only.
★ Why It Matters
This matters because it signals continuity in Iran's official nuclear policy during a leadership transition, which is crucial for regional stability and international non-proliferation efforts. The call for a new Strait of Hormuz protocol could impact global energy security and maritime trade. The statements also aim to project domestic stability after the death of a key security official.