Baghaei: Talks with IAEA Have Been Positive
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.”
Zionist regime a “serious and immediate threat” to regional and global peace
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, responding to a question on the Zionist regime’s weapons of mass destruction, said: “The Zionist regime is the only obstacle to the realization of a WMD-free zone in West Asia. This regime is not a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). It is extremely dangerous, commits genocide, is founded on terror and occupation, holds the territory of two countries under occupation, and constantly attacks others. This regime represents a serious and immediate threat to peace and security in the region and the world.”
He added: “This is the demand of all regional states. In every disarmament conference and every meeting on arms control, responsible states that care about global peace and security stress the necessity of compelling the Zionist regime to accede to international instruments and to hold it accountable for its WMD arsenal.”
NPT withdrawal must be decided by the system
On Iran’s nuclear commitments, Baghaei stated: “The Islamic Republic of Iran is a member of the NPT and remains committed to it. As for discussions about withdrawal, this is a decision for the Parliament. We are aware that such proposals have been raised by some MPs, but ultimately, this is a matter to be decided by the system as a whole. Continued debate does not mean any decision has yet been made.”
On Lebanon’s security and resistance weapons
Asked about the Lebanese cabinet’s decision regarding resistance weapons, Baghaei said: “We have already expressed our position clearly on the matter. We believe the Lebanese society and all its components must decide on the security of Lebanon based on their circumstances.”
He added: “At a time when the Zionist regime has shown it adheres to no rules or laws, and when the U.S. is unilaterally aligned with this regime, regional countries must rely on their own strength to confront aggression. Self-defense and protection of a country’s sovereignty is an inherent right and responsibility of every nation.”
Consultations on illegal snapback efforts
The spokesman also referred to President Pezeshkian’s recent trip to China, noting that in meetings with leaders of SCO and SCO+ states, “discussions were held on international developments, including certain efforts aimed at reimposing Security Council sanctions on Iran — an explicit violation of international law. Consultations were held with Russian and Chinese counterparts on this matter as well.”
On the U.S. renaming its Defense Department
Baghaei further commented on reports that the U.S. administration intends to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War: “I think they have simply admitted to an existing reality. In our media discourse, we have always referred to the U.S. Department of Defense as the Department of War, because if you look at history, there has never really been such a thing as a department of defense in America. This body has always been engaged in planning and waging wars against other countries.”
Return of sanctions: illegal, unjust and damaging
Responding to a question about Iran’s economic consultations with China and Russia in the event of snapback activation, Baghaei said: “I have repeatedly stressed that the issue of the return of UN sanctions against Iran and its consequences should neither be simplified nor exaggerated. The reimposition of sanctions is illegal, unjust, and harmful. We are doing everything possible to prevent it, while at the same time preparing for all possible scenarios.”
Baghaei added: “China and Russia are two important members of BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. They are our economic partners, and given the possible scenarios that may arise in the future, we have held consultations with these two countries as well as with other regional and neighboring states. These talks are ongoing.”
Europeans should fulfill commitments instead of setting conditions
Responding to another question about European claims regarding negotiations with Iran and the conditions they have put forward, the Foreign Ministry spokesman said: “European countries should fulfill their commitments instead of imposing conditions. The conditions they set are illogical. As we have already stated, their position during the U.S. and Israeli attacks against Iran was irresponsible.”
On the potential consequences of the snapback of UN sanctions and the forecasts prepared within the country, including by the Foreign Ministry, Baghaei said: “The Foreign Ministry, as the custodian of the country’s diplomacy, is obliged to use all diplomatic tools to prevent developments that are against national interests, and to move with full force in advancing the nation’s interests.”
Contingency planning to minimize damage from sanctions
Baghaei stressed: “Economic issues are not confined to one or two institutions. The task of developing different scenarios lies with a group of bodies responsible for economic, trade, export, and import affairs. In this framework, I can assure you that all dimensions of the issue are under review and the necessary preparations have been made, so that if sanctions are ultimately reimposed, we can manage the situation with minimal damage.”
No negotiations on Iran’s defensive capabilities
Asked about interpretations of a recent tweet by Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, regarding talks with the U.S., Baghaei said: “As for the interpretations of this issue, it is better to ask him directly. But what is clear is that under no circumstances will we negotiate on the country’s defensive capabilities. This is a firm and undeniable principle.”
He continued: “Today more than ever, it is evident that the Iranian nation will not allow any negotiation or dialogue on the tools necessary for defending the dignity, independence, and security of Iran.”
Iran’s support for Venezuela based on international law
On recent talks between the foreign ministers of Iran and Venezuela and Tehran’s position on developments in Latin America given U.S. pressure on Caracas, Baghaei said: “Iran’s support for Venezuela is based on international law and on an understanding of the dangers posed by unilateralism and bullying. Ignoring international legal norms and the principles of the UN Charter will not serve the majority of the international community. U.S. moves in the Caribbean against Venezuela and pressure on other states in the region have implications for the entire system of international law.”
He added: “No country can claim that these issues are unrelated to it.”
The senior Iranian diplomat also referred to bilateral ties, saying: “Iran and Venezuela have long-standing relations based on mutual respect and shared interests. As two developing countries in the Global South, both share common interests in defending international law and the UN Charter. This relationship and cooperation will continue within that framework.”
Israeli regime has absolutely no goodwill toward the region
Responding to a question about a conference reportedly organized by the Israeli regime under the pretext of offering advice and assistance to ethnic minorities from Syria and Iraq, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said: “Such a conference by the Israeli regime is like asking Jeffrey Epstein for his views on the victims of human trafficking.”
The senior Iranian diplomat emphasized that Tel Aviv’s approach toward the region has always been clear and consistent, regardless of ethnicity, religion, sect, or race. He noted: “Past experience shows that this regime has never discriminated when targeting and attacking regional states. The events in Syria, Lebanon, and the occupied Palestinian territories — including attacks on the infrastructure of neighboring countries — confirm that the Israeli regime has absolutely no goodwill toward the countries of the region or their ethnic and religious groups.”
China and Russia: E3 lack legal authority to trigger snapback
Asked about the joint Russian-Chinese draft resolution to extend UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and block the activation of the snapback mechanism, Baghaei said: “China and Russia’s position is the same as Iran’s. Both countries believe that the three European states do not have the legal capacity or standing to reinstate UN sanctions against Iran, because they themselves have repeatedly and systematically violated their commitments.”
He added that the joint letter from the foreign ministers of Iran, China, and Russia to the UN Secretary-General and the Security Council president clearly reflected this shared stance.
Baghaei further underlined: “We are tangibly witnessing that more and more Security Council members and UN states are expressing dissatisfaction with the European approach. They believe that resorting to, or abusing, this mechanism only complicates the situation and adds another knot to the path of diplomacy. Accordingly, an increasing number of countries are calling on the European trio to reconsider their approach.”
UK allegations against Iran baseless and without foundation
In response to renewed accusations from the UK against Iran, the spokesman said: “These accusations are nothing new. Similar allegations were raised some time ago by the British government, to which we responded in detail in an official statement.”
Highlighting Britain’s contradictory behavior, Baghaei said: “On the one hand, the UK’s record of interventionist actions — including its support for the Israeli regime against Iran — is crystal clear. On the other hand, they continue to level accusations against Tehran without once presenting the smallest shred of evidence to substantiate their claims.”
He stressed that such behavior should be understood as part of the UK’s traditional policy of siding with the United States in exerting pressure on Iran: “This policy is well known to all of us, and the Iranian public is fully aware of Britain’s history of interference. Therefore, all such allegations are baseless and without foundation.”
U.S. visa denial for Palestinian Authority officials violates UN host agreement
Commenting on the U.S. decision to deny visas to officials from the Palestinian Authority for participation in the UN General Assembly, Baghaei said: “This U.S. action contravenes its obligations under the Host Country Agreement. A similar case occurred in 1988, when the Palestine Liberation Organization was barred from UN meetings, and member states decided to hold the session in Geneva instead. This precedent demonstrates that the host country is obliged to facilitate the participation of all states in UN meetings, including the General Assembly.”
He added: “Beyond violating international obligations, this action reflects Washington’s dangerous policy of colluding with the Israeli regime to erase the issue of Palestine from the UN agenda. It is effectively an attempt to ignore the identity and rights of the Palestinian people.”
Armenia Philharmonic performance aimed at strengthening cultural ties
Asked about the recent performance of the Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra at Persepolis and its objectives, Baghaei said: “The aim of this initiative is to use art and culture to strengthen relations between the two friendly and neighboring nations of Iran and Armenia. This is certainly not limited to a single event. In recent months, under the framework of cultural weeks, numerous events have been organized with the cooperation of Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, and the Islamic Culture and Communication Organization. For example, in June, a Russian orchestra performed in Tehran during Russia’s cultural week, and in April, Iran’s symphony orchestra performed in Yerevan.”
He noted that further programs are planned, including a cultural week with Tajikistan in autumn and joint cultural events with Turkey, as 2025 has been designated as the cultural year of Turkey.
“We hope these cultural and artistic programs — which serve as platforms for people-to-people relations — will continue in the future,” Baghaei added.
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