Smoke screen: Iran's dramatic declaration – and the gap with what's happening on the ground

Iranian President Pezeshkian stated in a Fox News interview a willingness to dilute uranium and open facilities to inspection, while denying any pursuit of nuclear weapons. However, the article reveals a gap between the conciliatory statements and the continued fortification of nuclear sites, replenishment of ballistic missile stockpiles, and military threats from the regime. The interview takes place against the backdrop of Netanyahu's tough speech at the UN and secret diplomatic contacts.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian gave an interview to Fox News in which he declared that Iran is not interested in nuclear weapons, is willing to dilute uranium enriched to 60%, and to open its facilities to full inspection. However, the article reveals a deep gap between the conciliatory statements and the reality on the ground: the Revolutionary Guards are accelerating production of Kheibar Shekan and Fattah ballistic missiles, replenishing depleted stockpiles, and fortifying the nuclear sites at Fordow and Natanz deep in the mountains. The interview takes place against the backdrop of Prime Minister Netanyahu's speech at the UN General Assembly, where he presented maps of the expansion of the Iranian "axis of evil" and warned that Israel will not allow the completion of nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, diplomatic reports revealed direct and indirect contacts between Iranian figures and American representatives on the sidelines of the assembly. The article analyzes the Iranian tactic as a diplomatic smoke screen designed to lull international vigilance and prevent an attack while strategic capabilities are being fortified.