Iran's resolve to forge its own path without foreign interference defines its sovereignty, the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said on Wednesday, saying the recent US proposal to limit its nuclear program was against its national interest. Khamenei made the comments during a speech commemorating the founder of the Islamic Republic Ayatollah Khomeini on his death anniversary. "Who are you to tell us whether we should have nuclear program," Khamenei attacked.
Khamenei described national independence as Iran standing firm on its own capabilities. He rejected reliance on external powers' approval.
Video: Iran's leader speaks on the nuclear program / Credit: Iran social media
The ethos of "We can" fuels Iran's self-reliance, he said, referring to the US insistence that Iran won't enrich uranium on its soil. "The US plan regarding the nuclear issue is completely contrary to this principle," Khamenei said. He emphasized that US strategies clash with Iran's commitment to autonomy. He added that "a nuclear program without enrichment is useless."
"National independence means that the Iranian nation stands on its own feet. National independence means not waiting for a green or red light from the United States or others," he said.
