Published on: September 23, 2025 8:30 PM
Iran and Russia have agreed to build eight new nuclear power plants in Iran, signaling deeper cooperation between the two countries. Iranian nuclear chief Mohammad Eslami announced the plan during his visit to Moscow. He said that formal agreements would be signed this week, allowing construction work to begin. Eslami added that the goal is to help Iran reach 20 gigawatts of nuclear energy capacity by the year 2040.
Talks between the two countries have been ongoing, with final contract negotiations now completed. Eslami confirmed that the deal is ready for execution and that operational steps will begin soon. He emphasized Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy. Russia has also publicly supported Iran’s right to develop nuclear energy for civilian use, despite international pressure.
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However, the timing of the deal has raised concerns among Western nations, especially as tensions grow over Iran’s nuclear activities. Western countries accuse Iran of violating the 2015 nuclear deal aimed at preventing the development of nuclear weapons. Iran strongly denies having any such intention and insists its nuclear program is peaceful. Russia has echoed this view, saying Iran has the right to energy independence.
Last week, the UN Security Council rejected a resolution to lift sanctions on Iran permanently. Britain, France, and Germany offered a compromise by delaying sanctions if Iran agrees to restore access for nuclear inspectors and resumes talks with the United States. Still, the council moved forward with reimposing some UN sanctions after accusing Iran of non-compliance through the deal’s “snapback” clause.
Despite the international pressure, Iran and Russia are moving forward with their nuclear plans. Analysts say this deal could complicate global diplomatic efforts and further strain Iran’s ties with Western powers. Yet, both Tehran and Moscow seem determined to deepen their strategic partnership, especially in energy and infrastructure development.