Iran has announced that it will continue discussions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the coming days. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated on Monday that any progress depends on the removal of international sanctions.
During his weekly press briefing, Baghaei stressed that Iran is willing to take further steps to prove the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. However, he made it clear that such moves would only follow the lifting of what he described as “oppressive sanctions.”
“Our relationship with the Agency is direct,” Baghaei said. He noted that IAEA officials recently visited Tehran, and Iran’s envoy in Vienna is in constant contact with the U.N. watchdog.
Criticism of European countries
Baghaei criticized Britain, France, and Germany for signaling the possible use of the snapback mechanism to restore U.N. sanctions. He argued that these countries failed to uphold their obligations under the 2015 nuclear deal and did not condemn attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, which Tehran blames on the U.S. and Israel.
“The very act of Europe using this tool as a means of pressure against Iran is an illegal move,” he said. Baghaei added that Tehran has not cut off dialogue with European nations but questioned whether they aim to play a constructive role or align with Israel.
Regional stance in the Caucasus
On regional issues, Baghaei said Iran is closely monitoring developments in the South Caucasus. He emphasized that new transport routes should not compromise internationally recognized borders or Armenia’s sovereignty. His remarks followed a U.S.-brokered peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which includes plans for a new transit route.
Dismissal of U.S. speculation
Responding to speculation about links between the Jeffrey Epstein case and U.S.-Iran talks, Baghaei dismissed the claims. He stated that Iran does not engage in speculation about foreign motives, focusing only on actions that affect Iranian interests.
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