WANA (Nov 20) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi spoke on the phone with Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), discussing Iran-IAEA relations in light of Grossi’s recent visit to Tehran and developments surrounding the IAEA Board of Governors meeting and stated: “Iran will respond appropriately to any resolution issuance.”

 

Araghchi highlighted the agreements reached during Grossi’s visit, emphasizing that they once again demonstrated Iran’s goodwill and commitment to strengthening its cooperation with the agency.

 

During the discussion, both sides reaffirmed their determination to continue dialogue and engagement to resolve disputes and address other agenda items while avoiding unconstructive or confrontational approaches.

 

The Iranian foreign minister also warned that if other parties ignore Iran’s goodwill and adopt unconstructive measures at the Board of Governors meeting—such as issuing a resolution—Iran will respond in a manner it deems appropriate and proportionate.

On Wednesday, AFP reported, citing diplomatic sources, that the draft resolution submitted by the European Troika—comprising the UK, France, and Germany—regarding Iran’s nuclear program has been handed over to the secretariat of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

 

The draft, parts of which were seen by AFP, reiterates long-standing safeguard-related allegations, reportedly based on forged documents attributed to Israel, and calls on Iran to take urgent and necessary measures to resolve outstanding issues.

 

It also requests the IAEA Director General to prepare a “comprehensive report” on Iran’s cooperation with the agency and its fulfillment of safeguard obligations, to be reviewed at the March 2025 Board of Governors meeting.

 

During the IAEA Director General’s recent visit to Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran warned of the consequences of issuing a resolution, emphasizing that it remains open to cooperation if the other parties pursue dialogue. However, Tehran made it clear that it will take necessary actions if confronted with a resolution or other hostile measures.

Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, previously cautioned that any resolution targeting Iran’s nuclear activities would be met with an immediate response. “They have repeatedly witnessed that Iran does not yield to pressure and will continue its plans within the framework of its national interests,” Eslami said.

 

The submission of the European Troika’s draft resolution to the IAEA secretariat reflects what many see as a politically motivated and ill-advised approach by European capitals.

 

The draft is expected to be put to a vote during the IAEA Board of Governors meeting, which is set to begin within hours and continue for three days.