IAEA Official to Visit Iran Within 10 Days / Enrichment of Paramount Importance to Us

In today’s (Monday) press conference held on the occasion of Journalist Day, the family of Martyr Nima Rajabpour, Editor-in-Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting’s news network, who was martyred during a terrorist attack by the Zionist regime, was present. Ismail Baghaei stated, “Developments in our region are very rapid. Gaza, while enduring attacks by the Zionist regime backed by several Western countries including Germany and the U.S., is simultaneously facing starvation.”

He said: "Developments in our region are evolving rapidly. Gaza is simultaneously enduring attacks by the Zionist regime, backed by several Western countries including Germany and the United States, while its residents are suffering from severe hunger."

The Foreign Ministry spokesman added: "The international community has completely failed to fulfill its responsibilities. The Security Council, due to the constant obstruction by the United States, has been incapable of issuing even a simple resolution calling for an end to the genocide and for assistance to the defenseless people of Palestine. We are witnessing that, despite the clarity of international rules and the fact that—under international instruments—all states are obligated to act to halt genocide, punish and prosecute perpetrators, and deliver aid to the people of Gaza, no appropriate or effective action has been taken."

Baghaei, addressing Iran’s relationship with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), emphasized: "We have repeatedly voiced our complaints and objections to the IAEA’s politicized conduct. The Agency must refrain from coming under pressure. Iran, as a law-abiding country, remains committed to its obligations so long as it is a member of these instruments. Currently, there are no inspections in Iran."

IAEA Cooperation Must Follow Parliamentary Resolution

The Foreign Ministry spokesman continued: "The IAEA’s cooperation with Iran must be determined based on the latest resolution of the Iranian Parliament. The government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs coordinate all engagements with the Agency in accordance with that resolution. The three European countries have absolutely no legal grounds to misuse this mechanism to reimpose sanctions. Any abuse of this tool will carry consequences. The mandate is clear."

Regarding Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Pakistan, he said: "This visit was highly significant and will open a new chapter in bilateral relations. The ties between the two countries need no explanation. Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan. During this trip, 12 documents were signed in various areas including the economy, trade, customs, and culture. The extension of the cultural agreement between the two countries was a major development. Decisions regarding the conclusion of a free trade agreement were also discussed. Pakistan’s stance during the recent military aggression against Iran was appreciated and reflects Pakistan’s approach to the rule of law and its awareness of the risks posed by the Zionist regime’s expansionism. As founding members of ECO, the two countries can play a significant role in regional and bilateral economic development."

First Vice President to Visit Turkmenistan Today

Baghaei, referring to Eshaq Jahangiri’s upcoming trip to Turkmenistan, said: “The First Vice President is scheduled to travel to Turkmenistan today to participate in the third summit of landlocked developing countries. This summit is of significant importance to us, as Iran shares borders with eight out of the 32 landlocked countries, seven of which are ECO members. Iran’s role as a connecting bridge for neighboring landlocked countries is critical, and a 10-year development plan for these countries is to be drafted.”

On the UK Foreign Secretary’s Remarks

Baghaei remarked: “He is in no position to comment on the nature of Iran’s nuclear program; his remarks are purely political. If they accept the IAEA, they should also accept its reports, which have never identified any deviation in Iran’s peaceful nuclear program. Such statements only increase their international liability and reinforce the perception that the three European countries, including the UK, no longer consider themselves as parties to the JCPOA.”

He added: “If they did, they would refer to the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, which both affirm and validate Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear enrichment. The UK Foreign Secretary’s comments are largely intrusive and seem to reflect the entrenched colonial mindset of British politicians.”

Sanctions on Iran Shipping Companies Violate International Law

Commenting on the U.S. sanctions imposed on Iranian shipping companies and individuals, Baghaei stated: “There is no doubt that this action by the United States is a flagrant violation of international law. Despite decades of pressure and sanctions, we have preserved our country and countered unilateral actions. These moves are not limited to Iran; they affect all countries.”

Regarding the upcoming visit of Massimo Aparo, Deputy Director-General of the IAEA, to Tehran, he confirmed: “The IAEA official will visit Tehran within the next 10 days.”

On Araghchi’s trip to Tajikistan, he said: “Iran and Tajikistan enjoy an exceptionally close relationship. In many respects, we are one nation. This bilateral trip was part of efforts to strengthen neighborly relations.”

Claiming Compensation from the U.S. to Be on Agenda in Potential Talks

Addressing Araghchi’s recent interview and his reference to Iran’s condition for resuming talks with the U.S., Baghaei added: “Araghchi mentioned that any future negotiations will differ significantly from those prior to June 12, and circumstances have changed greatly. Demanding accountability and compensation from the U.S. will certainly be on the agenda in any potential negotiations.”

He further stated: “Reducing this issue to simplistic terms only reflects a poor understanding of international law. What is truly absurd is what we observe in U.S. policies — violations of law, support for Zionist crimes, and attempts to justify these actions. U.S. spokespeople should refer to precedents from international tribunals, such as the Iranian oil platform case, where the U.S. was found in violation.”

On the Non-Broadcast of Araghchi’s Interview by IRIB

Regarding the non-airing of Araghchi’s interview on state television, Baghaei noted: “Relations between the Foreign Ministry and IRIB are excellent, and we appreciate their efforts. This misunderstanding was not between us and IRIB — a special program had been planned and aired, and the rest was a matter between the producer and the network.”

U.S. Fully Supports Zionist Crimes

Foreign Ministry Spokesman on Trump’s Claim Denying Genocide in Gaza and U.S. Aid to Gaza:
“Here, we are discussing the approach of the U.S. government. The U.S. approach has always been unconditional support for the actions of the Zionist regime, and that is why the U.S. is considered an accomplice in the crimes of the regime. Thanks to the dedication of your colleagues, there is now no doubt that a horrific genocide is taking place, and such statements cannot reduce the burden of guilt and complicity of the U.S. The presence of a U.S. envoy, which proved to be merely a show, clearly demonstrated the role of the U.S. in covering up the crimes of the Zionist regime.”

On the Mistreatment of Iranian Nationals Detained in Azerbaijan:
“This issue is important. We have received reports regarding the mistreatment of detainees in Azerbaijani prisons, and we have sent multiple notes of protest and concern to Baku. Appropriate treatment consistent with human rights commitments is our legitimate expectation. The consular rights convention is very clear in this regard. We have a prisoner transfer agreement with Azerbaijan, and this matter is on the agenda of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”

On Enrichment Being of Paramount Importance:

Baghaei said regarding the Manara initiative on Iran’s nuclear issue: “The proposers of this initiative should clarify it. The consortium issue is not new, but we have never entered the details of this initiative in the negotiations. Naturally, in a country where the nuclear issue has been on the agenda for 20 years, thoughtful intellectuals will be concerned. Enrichment in Iran is an inseparable and very important part for us, and any plan that can secure this right for Iran is open to consideration.”

Regarding the Next Round of Negotiations Between Iran and Three European Countries:A reporter from Agence France-Presse asked whether these talks aim for a result and if other topics beyond the nuclear issue would be discussed. He replied: “In the Istanbul meeting, the parties agreed to continue the talks; the time and place have not yet been determined. Currently, we have not set a date, but the deputy ministers and their counterparts in the three countries are in contact, and I will announce it whenever it is decided.”

He added: “The negotiation topic has been nuclear. Whenever we went to negotiate, we did so seriously and believe negotiations must be purposeful, but the other sides have not necessarily been as committed. Inside the talks, certain topics have been raised, and outside the talks, other issues have been mentioned.”

On Claims About Consultations Among Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia Regarding Iran’s Nuclear Issue:
“We are unaware of such a plan, and it cannot be confirmed.”

On Recognizing the Current Government of Afghanistan:
“Recognition of other governments is a national decision, and we decide based on our own interests. It is quite natural that in any conversation between two neighbors—who may be affected by crises directly or indirectly—neighbors will certainly be discussed. Iran and Pakistan share many commonalities with Afghanistan, and what happens there is a concern for both countries. Any discussion will also include ways to assist that country.”

On Attacks Against Journalists Being War Crimes:

“Under international law, attacks on journalists are absolutely prohibited and constitute war crimes. The killing of journalists in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as attacks on national media, are examples of war crimes. We have documented all these cases, and a case is currently under investigation.”

In Response to a Question About a Statement by Four European Countries Accusing Iran of Threatening Actions in Europe and the U.S.:
“That statement has no basis. It is deflection and a ridiculous accusation without evidence or proof, purely an attempt to make allegations with no foundation. The countries behind it are clear: France and the U.S. specifically, whose goal is to apply pressure and distract attention from the current situation in Gaza. These countries are directly and indirectly accused of committing crimes in Gaza, whether through supplying weapons or providing support.”

On Direct Talks with the U.S

He rejected the possibility of direct negotiations.

On Iran-Iraq Cooperation in Energy and Electricity Exchange:

Regarding the visit of the Iraqi Minister of Electricity to Tehran, he said: “Iran and Iraq have a very long-standing cooperation in energy and electricity exchange. The issue of electricity payment has been on our agenda, and this visit was part of ongoing interactions between our Ministry of Energy and Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity.”

He added: “Since we are approaching Arbaeen, this visit was arranged to discuss how we can assist in meeting Iraq’s needs, as well as future cooperation in the energy sector and related payment matters.”