Baghaei: The Zionist regime has no authority to comment on water issues
On relations between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Baghaei stated: “The relationship between Iran and the Agency is not indirect. The level of engagement has changed after recent events, but direct communication remains in place. Last week, we held talks with Massimo Aparo, Deputy Director-General of the IAEA, to draft a cooperation protocol. Our permanent mission in Vienna is also in close contact with the Agency.”
He added: “The purpose of Aparo’s visit to Iran was to discuss Iran-IAEA cooperation. It is unprecedented for a country’s nuclear facilities to come under attack and then be inspected by IAEA officials. Another round of talks is scheduled for next week. What matters is that these dialogues continue — the format and venue are secondary.”
Regarding developments in the South Caucasus, Baghaei said: “We have clearly objected to the presence of extra-regional actors. Armenia explained its partnership with the U.S. is based on its domestic laws, and the agreement text reaffirms the inviolability of borders and respect for territorial integrity. No changes must occur in the region’s geopolitics. We are monitoring the situation closely and raise concerns whenever necessary.”
On rumors about foreign embassies suspending activities in Iran, Baghaei explained: “This was media speculation that began two weeks ago and resurfaced yesterday after reports of the German ambassador’s departure. None of the three European embassies have shut down. Although some of their activities were reduced after the Zionist regime’s attack on Iran, all three remain active. Some embassies made minor adjustments in consular services, but they are operational.”
Addressing recent comments by the Israeli Prime Minister about Iran — coinciding with multiple reports of Israel’s theft of Palestinian water resources and denial of Palestinians’ access to basic rights, including drinking water — Baghaei said: “Everyone knows this is nothing but propaganda and media hype. A party infamous for stealing water from its neighbors and the oppressed people of Palestine — a party whose first targets during its military aggression against Iran included Tehran’s main water pipeline — has no authority to speak on this issue. Our people are aware that such remarks are purely part of this regime’s propaganda noise.”
On the European threat to trigger the “snapback” mechanism, Baghaei emphasized: “Europe’s attempt to use the snapback as a tool of pressure against Iran is both illegal and illogical. The three European countries failed to fulfill their JCPOA obligations. After Israel and the U.S. attacked Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities, they neither condemned the actions nor clarified their stance.”
He concluded: “This only reflects the three countries’ persistent role in undermining the nuclear issue. We have continued negotiations with them. Our position on the possibility of reaching an agreement is clear. It is the European trio that must clarify what role they see for themselves in this process.”