Iran and Russia Intensify Nuclear Cooperation Efforts, Says Spokesperson

In a recent press conference, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, addressed several pressing questions regarding Iran’s relationship with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the role of mediators in these discussions. His statements offered clarity on Iran’s stance towards its nuclear obligations and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Responding to inquiries about Iran’s engagement with the IAEA and the mediation efforts from nations such as Egypt, Baghaei emphasized that Tehran does not require mediation for its interactions with the Agency. He stated, “Our representative in Vienna is active. We are members of the Agency, we present our positions publicly, and we convey them directly in discussions with Agency officials. As long as we remain members of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, we consider ourselves bound by its obligations.”

The senior diplomat elaborated on the challenges faced in this cooperation, highlighting that the issues began when the United States and Israel aggressively targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities. This act severely obstructed the collaborative process between Iran and the Agency. Baghaei noted, “The problem began when the United States and Israel, by attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities, obstructed the cooperation process between Iran and the Agency.”

Baghaei’s remarks also reflected on a significant military escalation that occurred on June 13. During a critical phase of nuclear negotiations, Israel launched an unprovoked attack on Iran. This aggression led to a devastating 12-day conflict, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,064 individuals, including military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. The United States further escalated the situation by bombing three Iranian nuclear sites, an act he described as a serious violation of international law.

In retaliation, the Iranian Armed Forces targeted key strategic sites within the occupied territories, as well as the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, which is known as the largest American military installation in West Asia. Baghaei pointed out that by June 24, Iran’s effective countermeasures against both Israel and the US managed to halt the aggression.

Critically, Baghaei addressed the recent statement issued by the Board of Governors against Iran, asserting that these opposing parties often overlook the facts. He urged, “Unfortunately, the opposing parties ignore the facts, and the Board of Governors should hold the United States, the Zionist regime, and their supporters accountable for their attacks on Iran, rather than speaking about Iran’s alleged non-cooperation.”

In addition to discussing the IAEA, Baghaei noted that negotiations aimed at enhancing cooperation between Iran and Russia in the realm of peaceful nuclear energy are ongoing. He emphasized that these discussions continue with the same level of seriousness and commitment as before.

Regarding the topic of mediation in negotiations with the United States, Baghaei remarked, “The matter is not about mediation or intermediaries at all. The issue goes back to the approach and policy of the United States—that is, the US not being serious about negotiations and, fundamentally, its approach to negotiations being based more on dictation than on conventional diplomatic give-and-take. As long as the United States insists on this approach, no meaningful negotiation can take place. Therefore, the issue of mediators and mediation is a secondary matter.”

• Iran’s Position on IAEA: Tehran asserts direct engagement without mediation.
• US and Israeli Aggression: Attacks have hindered cooperation with the IAEA.
• June Conflict: A 12-day war resulting in significant casualties.
• Retaliatory Actions: Targeting strategic sites in response to attacks.
• Ongoing Negotiations: Continued discussions with Russia on peaceful nuclear energy.
• US Negotiation Stance: Criticism of the US approach as dictatorial rather than diplomatic.

In conclusion, Baghaei’s statements reflect Iran’s firm stance on its nuclear obligations and its perspective on international diplomacy, particularly regarding the IAEA and relations with the United States. He reiterated that without a genuine and respectful approach from the US, meaningful negotiations remain unlikely.