Tehran - BORNA - At the beginning of his weekly press conference, Baghaei congratulated the Iranian nation on the occasion of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday and the Week of Unity, stressing the need to pay special attention to issues of the Islamic world, particularly the ongoing tragedy in Gaza.
“The Zionist regime’s crimes and genocide against the people of Gaza are expanding every day. Global public opinion demands an end to these atrocities and the prosecution of those responsible,” he said.
Humanitarian aid to Afghanistan and Pakistan
The spokesman also expressed condolences to Afghanistan over the recent earthquake, noting that Iran has already dispatched three shipments of humanitarian aid through the Iranian Red Crescent Society. He added that Tehran remains ready to continue assistance. Baghaei likewise conveyed sympathy to Pakistan following the recent floods in the country.
On EU’s snapback push
Asked about Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s recent talks with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in Doha regarding the activation of the snapback mechanism, Baghaei said: “The discussions were useful. It is our duty to use every opportunity to safeguard national interests, state our demands, and warn of the consequences of triggering the snapback. In these talks, certain points and ideas were exchanged, and we hope that European parties will reconsider their approach.”
On the IAEA report and inspections
Addressing the IAEA’s latest report and its demands for renewed inspections, Baghaei explained: “We have reviewed the report and will convey our position in writing to the Agency and the Board of Governors. We expected a fairer report, reflecting the unlawful military attacks on our nuclear facilities. Such an unprecedented crime should have been explicitly addressed by the Agency.”
He emphasized that the reporting period covered developments prior to the military attacks, but acknowledged that the IAEA has recognized Iran’s position: “The Agency has realized that Iran’s safeguards commitments cannot be implemented in the same way as before, since no protocol exists for attacks on a member state’s nuclear facilities. This understanding has been reflected in three rounds of talks held in Tehran and Vienna. While no final agreement has been reached, the talks have been positive.”
Baghaei said the remaining discussions are focused on nuclear safety, domestic nuclear law, and the Supreme National Security Council’s resolutions, with the aim of finalizing a new framework for cooperation.
On the inspectors’ case at Fordow
The spokesman also addressed the issue of two IAEA inspectors who had removed certain facility documents from Fordow in May, saying: “This action was against the relevant protocols, a fact acknowledged by the Agency itself. Iran therefore withdrew the designation of those inspectors. Contrary to what the report describes as ‘unjustified,’ we consider it fully justified, since those documents should never have been taken out of our facilities.”
Baghaei added that third round of negotiations between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was held in Vienna last Friday and Saturday, adding that the outcome is under review and the next steps will be announced based on the results.
On reports about Amir Mousavi
Responding to a question regarding reports that former Iranian cultural attaché Amir Mousavi had gone missing in Egypt, Baghaei clarified: “We also heard such news this morning. Of course, he is not currently a diplomat. He used to serve as our cultural attaché. Based on what we have been informed, he entered Egypt using an Iraqi passport. We are following this matter in line with our duty to protect the rights of our nationals.”
Ongoing contacts with Europe
Commenting on Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s meeting with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in Doha, Baghaei said: “Proposals were raised during this meeting. Naturally, both sides must consult their respective authorities regarding these ideas. Further talks are expected in the coming days, although the date of the next round of formal negotiations between Iran and the Europeans has not yet been determined. However, regular contacts are ongoing.”
President Pezeshkian’s upcoming visit to UNGA
In response to a question on whether President Masoud Pezeshkian will attend the UN General Assembly in New York, Baghaei confirmed: “According to the current plan, the President will attend this year’s UNGA, which coincides with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. This platform, as in previous years, provides an opportunity for Iran to present its positions and perspectives internationally.”
He added that the Foreign Ministry is coordinating with Iran’s mission to the UN to prepare the President’s programs. “With recent regional developments, especially the genocide in Palestine committed by the Zionist regime, we expect the international community and the UN to prioritize addressing this grave tragedy, which has now become a global demand,” he stressed.
Regional visits by the Foreign Minister
Addressing speculation about a possible visit by the Iranian Foreign Minister to Egypt, Baghaei said: “Trips to regional countries are part of the Islamic Republic’s policy to strengthen cooperation and hold consultations on bilateral and regional issues. Such visits have taken place before and may take place again whenever both sides agree. According to the current plan, the Foreign Minister will soon travel to Tunisia, and if necessary, to other countries as well.”
On U.S. restrictions against Iranian delegation in New York
Responding to a question on U.S. restrictions against the Iranian delegation attending the UNGA, Baghaei said: “Obviously, the U.S. government cannot impose such restrictions, as they are contrary to international law. Unfortunately, however, we have repeatedly witnessed such actions by the Americans in past years against Iranian delegations and even delegations from other countries.”
He continued: “These restrictions are contrary to the principles of international law. We have voiced our protest through relevant channels. We believe such actions are aimed at limiting countries’ equal rights to effectively participate in international forums. All nations must have the right to attend these gatherings without facing obstacles or political pressure.”
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