Sun Jun 22 01:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
**Iran President Defiant, Vows to Continue Nuclear Program Amidst Escalating Conflict**
**TEHRAN –** Amidst the ongoing intense conflict with Israel and direct military intervention from the United States, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has declared that Iran will not halt its nuclear activities. This announcement comes as the tenth day of fierce fighting sees continued strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, by U.S. B-2 Spirit bombers.
Despite the escalating attacks and international pressure, President Pezeshkian, in a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, stated that Iran would be open to a diplomatic agreement concerning its nuclear program, but would not abandon its nuclear ambitions. He emphasized Iran’s right to continue its civilian nuclear program and asserted that threats or military action would not deter them. Pezeshkian also refuted allegations that Tehran is developing nuclear weapons.
Israel has intensified its airstrikes targeting key Iranian nuclear sites, prompting President Pezeshkian’s statement. He indicated a willingness to engage in peaceful talks if Israel ceases its attacks.
Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation, including recent discussions between European leaders and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva, have failed to produce a breakthrough.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties. The Iranian Health Ministry reports over 400 deaths and 3,000 injuries from Israeli attacks. Israel claims 25 deaths and 2,517 injuries from Iranian attacks.
The United States and other Western countries have long expressed concerns about Iran’s nuclear activities, which Iran maintains are solely for peaceful purposes such as energy and medical research. The use of B-2 Spirit bombers in the U.S. strikes marks a significant escalation in the conflict.
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