Iran Does Not Benefit from Prolonged Negotiations

TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking during his weekly press briefing, Baghaei addressed the proposed Iranian text for the next round of nuclear talks and the possibility of reaching a temporary agreement. He said speculation surrounding negotiations is not unusual but cannot be confirmed, stressing that the technical details of any negotiation process are discussed inside the negotiation room. He added that a temporary agreement has no formal basis, noting that drafting negotiation texts is a joint process between the parties involved.

The spokesman reiterated that Iran is working to formulate its own views regarding the termination of what it describes as unjust sanctions and nuclear-related issues. He also said that Iran is well aware of the United States’ position, emphasizing that any negotiation must be a cooperative effort rather than one-sided pressure. Baghaei stressed that Iran remains committed to the diplomatic path because it believes in the legitimacy of its stance. He stated that Iran will continue negotiations as long as there is confidence that the process will lead to tangible results.

Regarding statements made by Rafael Grossi about inspections of nuclear facilities by the International Atomic Energy Agency, Baghaei said Iran has no preconditions for IAEA visits. However, he distinguished between general cooperation with the agency and inspections of damaged facilities, explaining that there is currently no established inspection method for such sites.

Baghaei also commented on reports concerning a possible visit by Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, to Oman, stating that the report must be verified and that he has no confirmed information about the trip.

In response to the designation of European military forces as “terrorist” organizations by the European Union, Baghaei said Iran’s stance was based on a resolution passed by the Iranian parliament. He argued that the EU decision violated fundamental principles of international law and that labeling official military forces of a sovereign state is unacceptable. He added that European forces operating in the region would now be viewed differently, warning that the designation may have practical consequences.

Baghaei also discussed Iran’s proposal presented during a nuclear disarmament meeting in Geneva, noting that the initiative has been discussed for decades and aims to promote global nuclear disarmament in line with the goals of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. He said nuclear-armed states have continued to expand and modernize their arsenals, arguing that public demands for implementation of non-proliferation commitments are growing.

Addressing questions about Iran’s confidence in resisting U.S. pressure, Baghaei said Iran’s confidence comes from its history, culture, and perception of its rightful position. He rejected the concept of “surrender” in Iran’s diplomatic approach, stating that Iranian society has historically resisted submission. From the perspective of international law, he said, the notion of forcing surrender contradicts global legal norms since all countries are equal members of the United Nations and international relations must respect state sovereignty.

Responding to claims about institutional disagreements between Iran’s foreign ministry and other national security bodies regarding negotiations, Baghaei said nuclear policy is implemented based on decisions made by the Supreme National Security Council, where all relevant institutions participate and express their views before final decisions are taken.

Regarding the potential adoption of the Additional Protocol, he said Iran previously implemented it voluntarily during the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action period. He added that any future voluntary commitment would depend on reciprocal steps related to sanctions relief. He described the protocol as a confidence-building instrument demonstrating the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.

Rejecting allegations that Iran is intentionally prolonging negotiations, Baghaei said the claim has no basis. He emphasized that Iran is willing to continue talks without interruption if necessary, noting that negotiations held every ten days are not ideal. He stated that diplomatic talks are only useful if they lead to concrete outcomes and argued that rational policy requires accelerating efforts to lift sanctions.

On relations with the Taliban authorities, Baghaei said Iran’s relations with Afghanistan are based on mutual respect and shared cultural and religious ties. He highlighted common concerns such as security, narcotics trafficking, and water resource management. He added that discussions regarding official recognition of the Taliban are political and sovereign matters that will be announced when a final decision is reached.

Baghaei also responded to statements by Israeli officials regarding alleged plans to confront the so-called “Shiite axis.” Using a Persian proverb meaning “a camel dreams of seeing sesame seeds,” he dismissed such claims. He stated that there is no distinction between Shiite, Sunni, Arab, or non-Arab populations in the policy of Israel. He further claimed that Israeli leaders have repeatedly expressed ambitions for regional dominance, including references to territorial expansion ideas.

He warned that such rhetoric increases regional concerns about Israel’s intentions, urging countries in the region to cooperate more closely against what he described as dangerous strategic illusions before it becomes too late.

Baghaei also commented on statements suggesting that a better agreement than the 2015 nuclear deal is achievable. He said the primary duty of Iranian diplomacy is to secure the rights of the Iranian nation, emphasizing that any acceptable agreement must guarantee Iran’s nuclear and economic rights, including sanctions relief. He stated that building trust is possible if other parties seriously accept that Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful, noting that no diversion toward weaponization has been observed.

Regarding U.S. sanctions, Baghaei said the purpose of sanctions has become increasingly explicit, arguing that Washington aims to create pressure on Iranian citizens in hopes of generating public unrest against the government.

Addressing reports about the escape of militants from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria into Iraq, Baghaei said Iran remains concerned about any development that could encourage the expansion of terrorism in the region. He recalled the heavy costs paid by Iran, Iraq, and Syria in combating the extremist group and stressed that Iran has communicated its concerns to Iraqi authorities.

Concluding his remarks, the spokesman said Iran’s foreign policy focuses on protecting national interests while continuing diplomatic engagement. He reiterated that Tehran aims to avoid being distracted by secondary issues and will pursue negotiations that produce meaningful results.