Speaking at a weekly press conference on Sunday, Esmaeil Baqaei said the resolution passed by the IAEA Board of Governors was contrary to the procedures that guide the UN nuclear agency’s work.
He stated the measure would not help the situation but would “only create complications,” slamming it as interference in the IAEA’s activities.
Baqaei stated that the sponsors of the resolution acted without goodwill, describing its contents as a “stain” on their record because it not only violates established IAEA practices but also fails to address the roots of the issue.
Commenting on the possible Iranian measures in response, Baqaei noted that Tehran had already declared one step, namely deeming invalid the understanding reached between Iran and the IAEA in Cairo on September 9.
He said Iran would consider the best course of action that secures national interests, stressing that any final decision at the strategic level would focus on safeguarding the country’s interests and national rights.
Asked about the recent comments by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi regarding mediation between Iran and the US and claims of a deadlock with the UN nuclear agency, Baqaei said there was no impasse.
He emphasized that Iran is a member of the IAEA and has its own demands, adding that the Agency’s leadership must remain committed to its technical responsibilities and avoid allowing pressure from the US and three European countries to pull the IAEA away from its professional path.