TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeli Baghihai has rejected a joint statement by four European European countries accusing Iran of threatening international security and calling the allegations “silly and unfounded.”
At a weekly press conference on Monday, Baghhai said: “The true purpose of these unfounded accusations is to divert global public opinion from the atrocities that are taking place in Gaza, where more than 230 journalists are marching.”
He held the session by honouring fallen journalists throughout the region and welcomed the family of IRIB reporter Nima Rajabpur who was killed in the recent Israeli strike. Baghey has slammed the recent attacks on journalists, including people in buildings in Gaza, Lebanon and Ilibu. “Under international law, attacks on journalists are strictly prohibited and constitute war crimes. We document all such cases and pursue legal action,” he said.
“Iran – iaea cooperation bound by law”
Baghaei reiterated Iran’s complaints about what is considered politicization within the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
“We have repeatedly opposed the government’s politically influenced actions. The IAEA must act independently of external pressure,” he said. He confirmed that there are no tests currently being conducted in Iran and said future cooperation with the agency will follow the framework established by the Iranian parliament.
“The three European signatories of the JCPOA do not have legal status to abuse snapback mechanisms to revive sanctions,” he added, warning that such misuse would have consequences.
He also confirmed that IAEA Deputy Director Massimo Aparo will visit Tehran to visit Tehran within 10 days.
“President Pezeshkian’s visit to Pakistan opens a new chapter.”
Baghaei described President Masoud Pezeshkian’s recent trip to Pakistan as a turning point in bilateral relations. “Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan’s independence.
This visit strengthened our historical ties,” he said. During the trip, 12 bilateral agreements were signed to trade, customs and cultural cooperation.
He praised Islamabad’s firm stance during the recent Israeli military attacks on Iran, calling it a sign of recognition of the threat posed by Pakistan’s commitment to international law and Israel’s expansionism.
“US sanctions violations regarding shipping companies”
Commenting on new US sanctions targeting Iranian shipping companies and individuals, Baghey declared them a clear violation of international law.
“There is no ambiguity. These measures are illegal. Despite decades of pressure, Iran is resisting unilateral enforcement and will continue to do so,” he said. He added that such actions will affect Iran as well as the global economy and other countries.
“Conditions for future lectures from us”
In response to questions about Araguchi’s recent remarks regarding the possibility of future nuclear negotiations, Baguea said Iran would request compensation from the US for violations of the JCPOA. “Future consultations will be fundamentally different to those discussed before June 13th. Accountability and demanding compensation for the United States will be part of the agenda,” he said.
He criticised negative reactions from several Western media and called them unaware of information. “The true absurdity lies in US policy: to support the crimes of the Zionist regime while pretending to support international law.” He called the ICJ ruling in the oil platform case evidence of past misconduct in America.
“We cannot deny our role in the Gaza genocide.”
Baghey has responded firmly to President Donald Trump’s recent claim that there is no genocide in Gaza. “These statements are intended to be whitewashed crimes. The facts are clear. A horrific massacre is ongoing and the United States is conspiring,” he said.
He described the recent visit to Gaza of the US envoy as a performance gesture. “This was a PR stunt. The US’s role in covering up the administration’s crimes is unmistakable.”
Baghaei strongly criticized the United Nations and the wider international community for failing to effectively respond to Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe.
“The Security Council has repeatedly been paralyzed by US obstruction and has failed to pass ceasefires and even basic resolutions calling for humanitarian assistance,” he said.
He emphasized that under international law, all countries have an obligation to prevent genocide, prosecute perpetrators, and assist victims.
“There is no date for E3 talk for the next round yet.”
Baghaei said it was agreed in Istanbul to continue negotiations with France, Germany and the UK, but the date and venue have not been confirmed. “We take all negotiations seriously and expect them to be outcome-oriented. The external political message from E3 is not profitable,” he added.
He also dismissed media speculations about potential nuclear mediation initiatives by Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. “I have no knowledge of such a plan. I cannot confirm it.”
Finally, Baghaei confirmed that the Deputy FM Araghchi had sent a letter to the Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres regarding the misuse of the snapback mechanism. “We don’t necessarily expect a response. These letters will help officially register Iran’s position and inform the international community.”