Tehran: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has strongly criticized the recent resolution adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Board of Governors, labeling it as ‘a stain on the designers and sponsors of it.’ The resolution, according to Baqaei, not only clashes with United Nations Security Council regulations and past practices of the IAEA but also fails to address what he sees as the root of the issue: the actions of the Zionist regime and the United States against Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei elaborated on the resolution’s shortcomings during a press conference on Monday. He argued that the document neglects the origins of the current dispute, thereby complicating an already complex situation. Responding to a question from IRNA about a resolution submitted by three European countries urging Iran to resume diplomatic negotiations based on rescinded Security Council resolutions, Baqaei stated that this measure ‘does not help solve the issue’ and will only exacerbate the matter.
Baqaei further contended that the resolution represents ‘a clear interference in the functioning of the agency’ and harms its independence, asserting that there was no goodwill behind its design and presentation.
He also addressed the topic of potential mediation between Iran and the United States, asserting that the real issue lies with the US approach and policy. Baqaei claimed that Washington is not serious about negotiations, viewing them as ‘dictation’ rather than a diplomatic exchange. He emphasized that no meaningful negotiation will occur as long as the US maintains this stance.
On the topic of Iran’s relationship with Saudi Arabia, Baqaei highlighted the strong ties between the two nations and expressed appreciation for Riyadh’s efforts to support regional stability. He clarified that a recent letter from Iran’s president to Saudi Arabia’s crown prince was a ‘routine’ communication within the framework of bilateral coordination on the Hajj.
Regarding regional tensions, Baqaei addressed the possibility of a meeting involving Iran and neighboring states to manage tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. He emphasized the importance of regional security and stability to Iran, noting Tehran’s efforts to prevent escalation and promote dialogue between Kabul and Islamabad.
Baqaei also touched upon Iran’s nuclear cooperation with Russia, affirming that ongoing talks to expand peaceful nuclear collaboration align with UN Security Council Resolution 2231. He expressed appreciation for Russia’s stance against efforts by European states and the US to revive repealed resolutions and confirmed that discussions with Moscow continue ‘seriously.’
In addition, Baqaei linked the recent release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents to US foreign behavior, suggesting that US actions abroad are sometimes attempts to divert attention from domestic issues. He also commented on the situation in Sudan, attributing the crisis to US interference and advocating for a resolution led by Sudanese actors themselves.
Other topics addressed by Baqaei included US-Venezuela tensions, where he accused the US of ‘bullying tactics,’ and US actions in Taiwan, which he claimed were aimed at provoking China. Additionally, he noted that Iran’s foreign minister would soon attend the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons annual session in the Netherlands, though no meeting with the European troika was planned.
Finally, Baqaei discussed the case of Mahdieh Esfandiari, an Iranian national detained in France, asserting that she had been arrested without grounds. He expressed hope for her release at an upcoming court hearing in mid-December.