Iran Dismisses Possibility of Direct Communication Channel with Washington

In a recent press briefing, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, discussed significant developments regarding Iran’s relations with the United States and the broader geopolitical landscape. This article highlights the key points from his statements, focusing on Iran’s foreign policy and positions on various issues.

During the briefing, Baghaei addressed the official communication channels between Iran and the United States. He stated, “Our official communication channel with the United States is the US Interests Section in Tehran, for which the Swiss embassy serves as the protecting power. Conversely, the Iranian Interests Section in Washington is considered our official channel in the US.”

He emphasized that while it is common for various parties to convey messages between the two nations, “the claim that a special or direct channel exists between Iran and the United States is incorrect, and no such channel is in place.”

US National Security Strategy

Baghaei also commented on the recently published US National Security document. He remarked, “Naturally, we will examine this document. At first glance, it is very candid and openly states everything the US administrations have pursued over the past years.”

He noted that the document reflects US concerns in the region, primarily centered around energy resources and the security of Israel. Baghaei asserted, “From the essence of this document, we can assess that the US positions itself as a judge in the affairs of countries worldwide—a role that no party accepts.”

He further criticized the document, stating, “This document, more than being a US National Security document, is essentially a security document for the Israeli regime. This, in itself, indicates US complicity in the regime’s crimes.”

Baghaei highlighted the implications of the document’s stance on Iran’s nuclear facilities, emphasizing that it indicates the US accepts responsibility for past attacks. “The document’s emphasis on being proud of the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities clearly demonstrates that the US accepts international responsibility for this assault,” he stated.

Persian Gulf Cooperation Council’s Claims

In response to the recent claims made by the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) regarding Iran’s sovereignty over its three islands, Baghaei declared, “Our position on the islands is clear. Historically and legally, there is absolutely no doubt about Iran’s sovereignty over them.”

He criticized the PGCC’s statement, suggesting it merely reiterates long-standing assertions from the UAE and the PGCC, asserting, “These are the same baseless claims as before, and we categorically reject them.”

Baghaei urged the littoral states of the Persian Gulf to act responsibly in their statements, warning against playing into the hands of what he termed the “enemy, namely the Zionist regime.” He reiterated Iran’s commitment to fostering good relations and neighborly principles with regional countries.

Iran and the IAEA

Addressing questions about the presence of a mediator between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Baghaei clarified, “We are in direct contact with the Agency.”

He explained that communications with the IAEA occur through Iran’s permanent mission in Vienna, stating, “As a member of the NPT, our communications with the IAEA take place through our permanent mission in Vienna.”

Baghaei acknowledged that it is not unusual for other parties to engage in discussions with the IAEA separately, but emphasized, “To say that there is a mediator involved is incorrect.”

Nuclear Negotiations and US Interference

When discussing allegations made by Tom Barrack regarding Iran, Baghaei remarked, “The US administrations have always sought to interfere in Iran’s internal affairs. What they call regime change is, in itself, an admission of the US attempting to violate the sovereignty of a nation.”

He pointed out the historical context of US interference in Iran, stating, “The US has a long history of interference in Iran, and any talk of negotiation is nothing but dictation.”

Baghaei concluded by urging the United States to reconsider its approach, despite acknowledging the challenges in changing established habits, noting, “We know that changing habits is difficult, if not impossible.”

In summary, the statements made by Esmaeil Baghaei during the briefing provide insight into Iran’s current foreign policy positions, its relations with the United States, and its stance on regional issues, including the claims from the PGCC and the IAEA discussions.