Iran’s Guardian Council has endorsed a crucial bill allowing the country to join the Asia-Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (APAC), marking a significant step in its international collaboration efforts. Spokesperson Hadi Tahan Nazif confirmed the legislation aligns with Islamic principles and the Iranian Constitution. Passed by Parliament on April 16, the bill authorizes the government to join APAC, pay membership fees, and appoint an executive body to oversee participation. This move aims to bolster Iran’s role in global accreditation, enhance trade relations, and increase trust in its products and services within the region. APAC, established in 2019, promotes mutual recognition of conformity assessments.
Kamal Kharrazi, head of Iran’s Strategic Council of Foreign Relations, stated that Iran is open to “true negotiations” with the West but is waiting for conditions that ensure mutual respect and equality. He emphasized that negotiations cannot occur under pressure or tyranny, criticizing U.S. tactics as “totalitarianism.” Kharrazi noted that current conditions are not conducive for dialogue, and the U.S. must first demonstrate a commitment to equal negotiations. Additionally, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the possibility of direct talks with the U.S. while President Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign continues, reaffirming that Iran will not negotiate under sanctions.
On the National Day of Resistance and Withstanding, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei honored Dezful, a city in Khuzestan Province known for its resilience during the Iran-Iraq War. Baqaei noted the city faced significant hardships, including 176 missile strikes and thousands of bomb and artillery attacks, yet its residents remained steadfast. He emphasized Dezful as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice, highlighting the patriotism of its people during the conflict. The war, initiated by Iraq in 1980, ended in 1988 with Iran reclaiming its territory. May 24-30 is recognized as Khuzestan Week in Iran, celebrating the region’s history.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, reiterated the country’s dedication to meaningful negotiations with the U.S., facilitated by Oman, focusing on a fair understanding. He warned against misinterpretations of media reports influenced by Israeli outlets. Baqaei confirmed Iran’s readiness for talks with Europe and emphasized cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.). He maintained that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful, asserting that U.S. sanctions hinder progress but that negotiations will continue if they align with national interests. Baqaei also condemned Israeli actions against Palestinians, highlighted diplomatic engagements with the Taliban, and addressed concerns about Iranian nationals detained abroad.
In an Al Jazeera interview, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei criticized IAEA chief Rafael Grossi for remarks that he claims incite aggression from the U.S. and Israel against Iran’s nuclear program. Grossi noted renewed activity at Iranian nuclear sites but confirmed no current uranium enrichment. The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) defended their enrichment levels as compliant with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Following military escalations from Israel, Iran’s parliament approved a bill to suspend IAEA cooperation, while President Pezeshkian expressed readiness to resume dialogue if fair treatment is assured. The situation remains tense and closely monitored.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi recently affirmed the nation’s readiness to respond to military threats, emphasizing that any aggression will be met with immediate retaliation. His comments reflect the increasing tensions among Iran, Israel, and the U.S., criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s influence on U.S. diplomacy and dismissing attempts to manipulate Iran’s actions. Araqchi pointed out that U.S. allies have misrepresented negotiations with the Trump administration, and he noted a growing skepticism among Iranians regarding the JCPOA. Overall, his statements highlight Iran’s determination to maintain its foreign policy amidst external pressures.