Tehran: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei says US restrictions on international educational services, including the TOEFL test for Iranian users, show that Washington is targeting Iranian citizens in all areas. Speaking at his weekly press conference on Tuesday, Baqaei said the restrictions were instead part of what the United States had itself described as an 'economic war' against Iran that also targeted science, education, and technology.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei stated that Iran would have to resist the restrictions and find alternative ways to maintain access to such services. He added that Iran remained in contact with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) through established channels, with Iran's mission in Vienna holding talks with relevant officials at the agency whenever necessary. However, he noted there was no new negotiation or dialogue between Iran and the IAEA beyond those routine contacts. Referring to claims about alleged nuclear activities at various locations, including Mount Kolang-Gaz La, Baqaei said Iran had previously made its position on the issue clear.

Baqaei highlighted that contradictory statements and political remarks by some IAEA officials, including Director General Rafael Grossi, had at times been exploited by Iran's opponents. He called on the IAEA to conduct its activities in line with its responsibilities under the agency's statute and refrain from becoming involved in other issues under the influence of some member states.

When asked about legal action to hold those responsible for the attack on an elementary school in Minab accountable, Baqaei said Iran regarded every action taken by the United States during its military aggression against Iran as a war crime. He asserted that the war had no legal basis and was 'absolutely unjust and illegal', adding that the Minab attack had received particular attention because it killed a group of innocent children.

Baqaei also referred to Lamerd, saying it was highlighted because a prohibited weapon had been used there for the first time to cause greater loss of life. He emphasized that Iran's authorities and journalists had a responsibility to document all such incidents, both for possible proceedings at the international level and for consideration by domestic courts.