Esmaeil Baghaei spoke at a press briefing Monday in response to a question about the U.S. president’s remarks the previous night that Iran does not need nuclear energy. "We do not negotiate in public or through the media," he said. "However, Iran’s principled stance on the nation’s right to peaceful nuclear energy is consistent, based on logic and international law."

Regarding mixed signals from the U.S. president—simultaneously imposing sanctions while calling for talks—Baghaei added: "These contradictory messages from different U.S. officials are not helpful, but they will not negatively impact our determination to uphold our principled positions."

Responding to the argument that Iran does not need enrichment due to its oil reserves, the spokesperson emphasized: "If the basis is having oil, then the U.S.—which possesses far greater oil resources than Iran—should logically shut down its own nuclear program. Many countries, including close U.S. allies like the Netherlands and Japan, have peaceful nuclear programs that include enrichment, while both nations reject nuclear weapons."

Baghaei stated: "Iran, recognizing its energy demands, population growth and economic necessities, has long understood the need to benefit from diverse energy sources, including nuclear power. This program is not only historically justified but also grounded in clear, accepted principles of international law."