Iran's UNGA participation among its 'most successful' international appearances: Baghaei

Tehran - BORNA - Speaking at a press briefing, Baghaei provided a comprehensive overview of the Islamic Republic’s recent foreign policy developments and addressed a wide range of regional and international issues.

He began by commemorating Sacred Defense Week and praising the Iranian sports delegation, particularly the female athletes, for their brilliant performance at the Asian Games in Japan, calling it a testament to the self-belief, growth, and progress of Iranian women.

Addressing Iran's participation at the UNGA, Baghaei noted that while the delegation was small, its activities were highly productive. "It was important for us to use this opportunity to convey Iran's logic, authority, and innocence. I believe this was one of Iran's most successful appearances in international forums," he said.

Lebanese Ambassador Issue

Responding to reports that the Lebanese Prime Minister had requested a new Iranian ambassador during a meeting with the Iranian President in New York, Baghaei described the bilateral talks as positive. He clarified that the current Iranian ambassador has already received his agrément from Lebanese authorities, adding that any minor misunderstandings will be resolved through ongoing dialogue with Beirut.

Warning to Neighbors and UAE Prisoner Release

Baghaei urged neighboring states to uphold the principles of good neighborliness. "We adhere to good neighborliness and expect them to do the same. They must not allow their territory and resources to be exploited by parties that have shown no regard for regional security and prosperity," he stressed, referring to the US and the Zionist regime.

He also expressed gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for releasing several Iranian nationals, noting the issue was raised during UNGA sideline meetings. However, he reiterated the legal and international expectation that regional countries prevent adversaries from using their airspace or military facilities for aggression against Iran.

Nuclear Negotiations and IAEA Inspectors

Baghaei categorically denied Western media reports suggesting Tehran had agreed to the return of IAEA inspectors in exchange for sanctions relief. "No such discussion took place. We did not enter into nuclear discussions at all," he clarified, stating that Iran's mandate was to communicate its conditions to mediators.

He also noted that Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi is a member of a six-person committee under the Supreme National Security Council, which has been tasked with handling negotiation-related issues for the past few months.

Strait of Hormuz and US Proposals

Baghaei explained that Iran's current diplomatic focus is on its proposed "7-day plan," emphasizing the security of the Strait of Hormuz. While US counter-proposals focused primarily on nuclear issues, Iran insists on securing the strategic waterway first.

"Restoring security to the Strait of Hormuz requires specific steps from the American side, including an end to interference in Iran's commercial navigation and interventionist actions," he said, adding that all US sanctions imposed during this period must be lifted in accordance with the Islamabad Memorandum.

Response to Trump's Claims

When asked about Donald Trump's claim that he does not know who to negotiate with in Iran, Baghaei dismissed the assertion as baseless. "You will not find any country as cohesive and disciplined in decision-making as Iran. The Americans know exactly who their counterpart is," he stated. He attributed the confusion to the "chaotic and contradictory" nature of the US governance system and its competing political factions.

President's Upcoming Visits

The spokesperson announced that the Iranian President will soon travel to Awaza, Turkmenistan, to attend the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. He will also participate as a special guest in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) summit scheduled for Thursday.

UK Accusations and Complicity

Regarding British allegations against Iran over an incident at the Fairford base, Baghaei stated that the UK ambassador was summoned and an official protest was lodged. He described the UK's posture as a deflective tactic, asserting that Britain must be held internationally accountable for its complicity in the recent military aggression against Iran. He noted that the NATO Secretary General had explicitly confessed that bases in Europe were used during the attacks, directly implicating states like the UK.

Diplomat 'Expulsion' Claims

Baghaei firmly denied US media claims that two Iranian diplomats were "expelled" from New York. "Our travel schedule was announced in advance. Regarding the two individuals mentioned, one of our diplomats was scheduled to stay in New York for a few more days to fulfill his duties. Due to the pressure exerted, yes, that diplomat left New York. But in all other cases, we left exactly as pre-planned," he explained. He criticized the US for fabricating narratives to mask its failure to isolate Iran at the UN.

US Withdrawal from Iraq

The spokesperson welcomed the impending withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, calling it an auspicious step for Iraqi sovereignty after 23 years of occupation. He cited the Abu Ghraib prison crimes and the rise of Daesh (ISIS) terrorism as direct consequences of foreign military intervention.

NPT Withdrawal Debate

Addressing parliamentary discussions about Iran potentially withdrawing from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Baghaei acknowledged that the debate is highly serious among Iranian elites. "Iran has fully complied with its NPT obligations since 1970 but has continually faced military threats, the assassination of its scientists, and attacks on its nuclear facilities," he said. While the Foreign Ministry adheres to the decisions of competent state bodies, he affirmed that Iran currently remains a treaty member.

Relations with Russia

Baghaei highlighted the strong bilateral and multilateral relations between Iran and Russia, noting their shared opposition to unipolarity and militarism. He appreciated Russia's "valuable stance" in condemning the third imposed war against Iran and confirmed that Tehran and Moscow regularly consult on nuclear issues and coordinate closely at the UN Security Council.

Afghan Clinics and Military Threats

The spokesperson noted that Iran is actively engaged with authorities in Kabul regarding reports of the Taliban closing some Iranian cultural and health centers in Afghanistan.

Baghaei also addressed Trump's military threats by reaffirming Iran's commitment to diplomacy, while warning that the US cannot unilaterally dictate the start and end of conflicts. "Our armed forces remain vigilant and powerful, ready to repel any foreign threat. The world has clearly seen that when it comes to defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity, Iranians will use every tool available to repel the enemy's malice," he declared.

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