At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Iran's Vice-President for Strategic Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, denied Tehran's interest in developing nuclear weapons and expressed openness to dialogue with Western nations.

Axar.az, citing Reuters, reports that this comes as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warns of Iran accelerating uranium enrichment to near weapons-grade levels, intensifying global concerns.

IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi stressed the importance of direct diplomacy between Iran and U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, imposing harsh sanctions under his "maximum pressure" policy. Grossi described renewed dialogue as "indispensable" and noted Iran’s recent enrichment acceleration—producing over 30 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% per month, nearing the threshold for nuclear weapons production. Iran currently possesses approximately 200 kilograms of uranium at this level.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged Iran to take steps to ease tensions by clarifying its peaceful intentions. Zarif, addressing fears of escalating conflict, called for a shift from threat-based interactions to opportunity-driven dialogue. He emphasized that Iran poses no global security threat and expressed hope for pragmatic engagement with the U.S. administration.

The situation has been further complicated by concerns that President Trump might encourage Israel to strike Iran’s nuclear sites or reinstate severe sanctions. Despite Trump’s earlier campaign remarks opposing war, his administration remains cautious of Iran's actions.

Grossi highlighted the potential for a new nuclear agreement, suggesting a willingness from both sides to engage in discussions. However, the timeline and scope of such negotiations remain uncertain.