Vienna: The spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Behrouz Kamalvandi, has described preventing AEOI chief Mohammad Eslami from attending the IAEA General Conference as a dangerous precedent for all countries, stressing that the agency and its member states must stand up to US bullying and political pressure.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Kamalvandi, speaking to reporters at the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Monday, emphasized the broader implications of Eslami's exclusion. He stated, "Preventing the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran from attending the General Conference would set a precedent that would affect everyone. Therefore, we must stand up to such bullying and political pressure."

Kamalvandi further characterized the US government's decision as "childish behavior," expressing concern over the impact of such actions on international norms. He urged the IAEA and its member states to hold the US accountable to the agency's procedural rules and to resist undue political influence on the international stage.

The incident arose when the Austrian government, under US pressure, revoked Eslami's visa, thereby barring his participation in the conference. This move was criticized as contrary to Austria's obligations as the host country for international institutions.

The 70th IAEA General Conference, which commenced on Monday in Vienna, includes a wide-ranging agenda that addresses the agency's annual report, advancements in nuclear science and technology, technical cooperation initiatives, and the implementation of safeguards. Additionally, the conference will engage in discussions on prohibiting attacks against nuclear facilities.