Ayatollah Khamenei: Iran’s Nuclear Sovereignty Non-Negotiable, U.S. Has No Right to Interfere

In a powerful speech on the 36th anniversary of Imam Khomeini’s passing, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution reaffirms Iran’s independence, slams U.S. meddling, and condemns Zionist crimes in Gaza

Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei firmly rejected the United States’ proposed plan for Iran’s nuclear program, declaring it completely contrary to the Islamic Republic’s doctrine of self-reliance—“We Can.”

He emphasized that Iran will firmly continue uranium enrichment activities, calling them none of Washington’s business.

Speaking live from the mausoleum of Imam Khomeini in southern Tehran on the occasion of the 36th anniversary of the late Imam’s passing, Ayatollah Khamenei delivered a message that reaffirmed the Revolution’s foundations, the enduring influence of Imam Khomeini, and the unwavering stance of the Iranian people.

Imam Khomeini’s Legacy Still Shapes Global Shifts

The Leader noted that even 36 years after his departure, Imam Khomeini’s presence and impact are still felt across the world. He pointed to the decline of hegemonic powers, the rise of a multipolar global order, the collapse of U.S. influence, increasing global rejection of Zionism, including in Western countries, and a growing awakening of nations against imposed Western values.

He recounted how the West was first astonished at how an unarmed nation, led by a religious scholar, managed to overthrow the Western-backed Pahlavi regime and eliminate the presence of exploitative American and Zionist forces from Iran.

The second major shock, he continued, came with the establishment of the Islamic Republic—not through force or foreign backing, but through the insight, faith, and determination of the Imam and the people.

U.S. Hopes Dashed by Imam’s Clarity, Conspiracies Intensified

Ayatollah Khamenei recalled that the United States had pinned its hopes on the emergence of a compromising government in Iran to reassert its interests. However, the Imam’s clear stance in establishing an Islamic and religious system shattered that illusion.

“From that point onward,” said the Leader, “the enemies’ destructive conspiracies began.”

He stressed that the scope, depth, and persistence of these plots—by arrogant powers such as the U.S. and the Zionist regime, supported by intelligence agencies like the CIA, MI6, and Mossad—are unprecedented in the history of modern revolutions.

Despite these campaigns, Ayatollah Khamenei underscored that the Islamic Republic has not weakened, but has advanced confidently and will continue to grow stronger in the future.

Wilayat al-Faqih and National Independence: The Twin Pillars

The Leader identified Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist) and national independence as two foundational pillars of Imam Khomeini’s political rationality.

He explained that Wilayat al-Faqih ensures the Revolution remains rooted in religious principles and is protected from deviation, while national independence reflects the vision of a sovereign Iran, reliant on its own judgment and not subject to foreign approval.

He elaborated:

“National independence means that the Iranian people must make their decisions independently, act on them courageously, and not wait for validation from the U.S. or others.”

Ayatollah Khamenei stated that attempts by enemies to undermine the spirit of “We Can” within Iran are proof of its central importance. He criticized the American proposal in ongoing nuclear negotiations mediated by Oman, stating it is “100% against the spirit of ‘We Can.’”

Resistance and the Strategic Value of Nuclear Technology

The Leader emphasized that Resistance—defined as adhering to one’s principles without surrendering to global powers—is an essential part of true national independence.

He reiterated that the nuclear industry is a foundational and strategic sector, influencing basic sciences, energy and materials engineering, and sensitive technologies in medical, aerospace, and sensor equipment.

“Without enrichment and the ability to produce nuclear fuel, even owning 100 nuclear power plants would be pointless,” he said. “Because in that case, we would be dependent on the U.S., who would attach dozens of conditions to providing fuel.”

Recalling Past U.S. Deception Over Fuel Exchange

Ayatollah Khamenei recalled the episode from the early 2000s, when the U.S. attempted to broker a fuel exchange deal through two friendly nations.

Iran was to hand over part of its 3.5% enriched uranium in return for 20% enriched fuel for domestic use.

He recounted:

“Our officials agreed, and I instructed that they should deliver the 20% fuel to Bandar Abbas Port, where we would test it before exchanging. But when they saw our insistence and carefulness, they went back on their promise and refused to deliver the fuel.”

This incident, he said, underscores why Iran must never become dependent on foreign powers for critical industries.

A Firm Message to the U.S. and Zionists

Ayatollah Khamenei asserted that the U.S. goal is to completely dismantle Iran’s nuclear program, despite its obvious civilian and scientific benefits. He condemned American officials’ “rude and insolent” statements and stressed:

“Our response to the absurdities of the loudmouthed, imprudent American government is clear:
Today, the nuts and bolts of our nuclear industry are stronger than ever.
And the rulers in Washington and the Zionists should know—they cannot do a damn thing about it.”

He declared that Iran’s message to the world is this:

“The Iranian nation’s destiny lies in its own hands. Who are you to decide whether or not we can enrich uranium? From what legal basis do you presume such a right?”

Condemnation of Zionist Crimes in Gaza

In the final segment of his speech, Ayatollah Khamenei turned to the atrocities being committed by the Zionist regime in Gaza. He cited disturbing reports that food distribution centers are being used as traps to lure people and then massacre them.

“This level of vileness, wickedness, cruelty, and barbarity is truly appalling,” he said.

He emphasized that the United States is complicit in these crimes and stated:

“That is why we insist—the U.S. must be expelled from West Asia.”

A Warning to Islamic Governments

Ayatollah Khamenei delivered a direct message to Islamic governments across the world:

“This is not a time for hesitation, appeasement, neutrality, or silence.”

He warned that any government that, under any pretext, aids or justifies the Zionist regime—through normalization, obstructing aid to Palestine, or defending Zionist crimes—will be marked with eternal disgrace.

He concluded with a divine warning:

“In the Hereafter, punishment for siding with the Zionists will be severe.
And in this world, nations will not forget such betrayal.
Aligning with the Zionist regime brings no security to anyone—because by the will of God, this regime is collapsing.
And that day, God willing, is not far off.” (PW)

Source: Tasnim News