Iran Nuclear File: Foreign Ministry Urges I.A.E.A. to Address Key Technical and Legal Challenges

Tehran, IRNA – In a significant development regarding Iran’s nuclear program, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has stated that Iran anticipates the International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.) to offer both technical and legal considerations concerning its nuclear file. This expectation comes amid the scheduled visit of an I.A.E.A. technical delegation to Iran.

During his weekly press briefing on Monday, Baqaei highlighted the visit as part of ongoing discussions that occurred last week between Iranian officials and the I.A.E.A. He noted that the delegation would engage in technical talks with Iranian experts, focusing on critical issues such as safeguards.

Indirect Iran-U.S. Talks Scheduled for May 3

When asked about the negotiations between Iran and the United States, Baqaei confirmed that the next round of indirect talks is set for this coming Saturday. He remarked, “based on the understanding and announcement of the Omani host.”

The specifics regarding the timing and location of these talks will be coordinated among Iran, the U.S., and Oman. Baqaei characterized the slowdown in the negotiation process as a normal occurrence, asserting that technical discussions are inherently time-consuming.

Additionally, he addressed a social media post by Oman’s Foreign Minister, Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, regarding the upcoming indirect talks, suggesting that the post may have been misinterpreted. He clarified that this round of negotiations would be chaired by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, as in previous discussions.

Iran’s Red Lines: Enrichment and Sanctions

Baqaei reaffirmed Iran’s position on its peaceful nuclear program and the illegal sanctions imposed on the nation. He stated, “Enrichment and the effective lifting of sanctions are red lines in the negotiations with the United States.”

The spokesperson emphasized that any negotiation details must adhere to the general framework agreed upon by the involved parties, declaring:

• Enrichment and lifting of sanctions are critical points for Iran.
• Negotiations will be pursued seriously within these frameworks.

Araqchi’s Visits to China and Russia

Regarding Araqchi’s recent diplomatic missions to Beijing and Moscow, Baqaei shared that discussions encompassed bilateral issues as well as the ongoing Israeli conflict in Gaza. He expressed:

“We all must stand against genocide,” emphasizing the international community’s shortcomings in addressing Israeli actions in Gaza.

Warnings Against Israeli Military Actions

Baqaei issued a stern warning concerning the Israeli regime’s persistent threats, asserting that any military adventurism or wrongful actions against Iran would evoke a strong response. He stated:

“The Zionist regime’s officials are attempting to divert attention from the genocide in occupied Palestine and undermine diplomatic processes in the region.”

Baqaei urged Western nations to reconsider their support for Israel, highlighting its ongoing threats to global peace and security.

Detention of Iranian Citizens in France

The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also condemned the arrest of two Iranian nationals in France, who have been denied consular visits. He described their arbitrary detention as a violation of human rights and freedom of expression, stating:

“Iran has followed up on both cases, and a consular visit was agreed upon with the two citizens.”

Baqaei reiterated that the Iranian citizens had not committed any crime but had merely expressed their humanitarian sentiments regarding the situation in Gaza. Tehran expects the French government to provide clarity on this matter.