“Sanctions won’t affect Iran’s nuclear program”

No sanctions can prevent Iran from developing its nuclear program, Dr Seyed Mohammad Marandi from the University of Tehran told RT.

”Iran’s nuclear program is not up for grabs and is not up for negotiation. If the Americans and their allies act reasonably, the Iranians, of course, can help create a situation where assurances can be given and any potential fears eased,” he said.

Dr Marandi also added that sanctions could create an opposite effect, leading to more tensions in the Middle East.

Julien Mercille, a Lecturer in Geopolitics at University College Dublin says that Iran’s history and nationalism are some of the reasons why it is so reluctant to yield to international pressure.

“I think there is an element of national pride, simply to be self-sufficient in the nuclear field. I think there is also an element of history,” Mercille said. “Before the Revolution, Iran had contracts with Western companies that were broken once the Revolution was over. Also, I think it is just the fact that under international law, Iran has the right to produce enriched uranium and conduct activities in the nuclear field.”