Baghaei: Iran Will Not Negotiate Its Defensive Capabilities
WANA (Jul 28) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson warned against activating the snapback mechanism, stressing that “it is now clear to everyone that defensive capabilities are the only things that can truly protect Iran — and the Islamic Republic will never negotiate over them.”
In his weekly press conference with domestic and international media, Esmail Baghaei referred to the atrocities committed by Israel in Gaza and the West Bank, saying the ongoing genocide in occupied Palestine is the most pressing regional and international issue.
He stated: “We are witnessing the bombing of the Palestinian people and the use of hunger and thirst as weapons to annihilate an entire nation.” He noted that consultations with regional countries have been held to form a unified stance in support of Gaza. Iran’s Foreign Minister has been in contact with counterparts in the region and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to push for an emergency summit and discuss ways to stop the violence.
Baghaei emphasized that Israel’s use of food as a weapon is a war crime that violates all international laws — something unprecedented in the 21st century.
Worsening Humanitarian Situation in Gaza / WANA News Agency
Nuclear Talks in Istanbul
Regarding recent discussions in Istanbul, Baghaei confirmed that talks were held with three European countries on Friday, focusing solely on the nuclear issue and the lifting of sanctions.
Iran’s Position on the Caucasus Unchanged
On developments in the Caucasus, Baghaei said Iran’s stance on opposing any change in geopolitical borders remains unchanged. Iran consistently calls for expedited peace talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia and continues to support regional transport corridors, provided that territorial integrity is respected.
He added that the involvement of non-regional actors does not contribute to stability, and even regional players have rejected such speculation. Iran remains in close contact with both Baku and Yerevan.
Zangezur and the Attempt to Encircle Iran
WANA (Jul 21) – The idea of establishing the Zangezur Corridor is not new. It dates back even to the Ottoman Caliphate, which sought a strategic foothold in the South Caucasus and frequently clashed with both Russia and Britain over influence in the region. Later, during Atatürk’s era, Turkey made further attempts in this direction, […]
Only Nuclear Issues Were Discussed in Istanbul
Baghaei made clear that the Istanbul talks covered nothing beyond the nuclear file and sanctions. He dismissed the European version of the negotiations, saying it does not reflect Iran’s perspective. “They have no legal standing to invoke the snapback mechanism,” he said.
On the threat of snapback, he explained: “European countries have long tried to misuse UN Security Council Resolution 2231 as leverage, even though their own actions have undermined the resolution’s credibility.” Iran has warned that any activation of this mechanism will provoke a firm response, and the consequences will be on those who initiate it. These threats have also triggered public reactions within Iran.
Baghaei added: “We hope the other parties are aware of the consequences of abusing Resolution 2231 mechanisms.”
Israel Backs Anti-Iran Terror Groups
Addressing the recent terrorist attack in Zahedan and Israel’s ties to Jaish al-Zulm, Baghaei said Israel’s support for anti-Iranian terrorist groups is well-documented and aims to destabilize Iran. He assured that Iran will deal firmly with the perpetrators.
U.S. Use of Ramstein Airbase Against Iran
On the U.S. use of Germany’s Ramstein Airbase, Baghaei criticized Berlin’s denial of responsibility, noting that international law opposes such use, and even German legal scholars have challenged Berlin’s position.
U.S. Exit from UNESCO Is Unjustified
Baghaei also condemned the United States’ recent withdrawal from UNESCO, saying it was due to the organization’s support for Palestine. “This is the third time the U.S. has done this, and it has no justification,” he said, adding that many global figures have also criticized the move.
No Current Plans for U.S. Talks
Baghaei stated that Iran currently has no plans to negotiate with the United States. “If such a decision ever aligns with national interests, it will be announced at that time,” he said.
The U.S. Must Provide Guarantees Before Any Talks Begin
WANA (Jul 26) – Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, stated in an interview that before any new dialogue with the United States can begin, Tehran requires clear guarantees to prevent a repeat of military strikes. “We do not want to be surprised by military attacks in the midst of negotiations again. That would be […]
Europe Complicit in Gaza Atrocities
He accused European countries of complicity in the Gaza crisis, saying: “Those being killed in Gaza are not Hamas members but civilians.” With over 60,000 dead and 150,000 injured, Gaza has become uninhabitable. “Unless Europe adopts a just approach, the Palestinian issue will not be resolved.”
Europe’s Broader Agenda Signals Confusion
He criticized France’s attempt to tie non-nuclear issues to the snapback mechanism, calling it blackmail and a sign of confusion on the part of Europe. “Iran is now more determined than ever to protect its assets and defensive capabilities.”
Trump’s Remarks Meant for Domestic Audience
On Donald Trump’s claim that Iran has no right to enrich uranium, Baghaei said the comments were for domestic consumption and don’t warrant a serious response.
Israeli Claims Are Outrageous
Responding to Israeli allegations that Iran was involved in the assassination of U.S. officials, Baghaei said these claims are part of a months-long campaign to distort reality. “Those who threaten Iran and assassinate some of its most honorable citizens cannot claim victimhood. This is pure media noise.”
People attend the funeral procession of Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists and others killed in Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, June 28, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
If Iran Is to Remain in the NPT, It Must Enjoy Its Rights
Baghaei said regarding uranium enrichment: “If Iran is to remain a member of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), it must benefit from its rights. You cannot consider Iran a member and at the same time deprive it of its entitlements. The future of Iran’s nuclear program is clear.”
Regarding damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities, he added: “We are awaiting the results of the Atomic Energy Organization’s investigations.”
Iran Remains Committed to IAEA Safeguards
In response to a question about cooperation with the IAEA, Baghaei said: “Iran remains a party to the safeguards agreements and, based on the Parliament’s resolution, is currently drafting a new cooperation framework with the Agency. One of the Agency’s officials is likely to visit Iran within the next two weeks.”
No Peace Without Palestinians’ Right to Self-Determination
On Iran’s stance toward Israel, Baghaei said: “As long as the Palestinian people are denied their right to self-determination, peace will not be possible. The Zionist regime was founded on occupation and is now committing genocide. Iran’s policy on this matter is principled and consistent.”
Gaza Crisis. Social media/ WANA News Agency
No Decision Made on Presidential Visit to Afghanistan
Baghaei stated: “No plan for the president’s visit to Afghanistan has been communicated to the Foreign Ministry. The question of recognizing the Taliban government is a sovereign decision. Iran will continue its contacts with Afghanistan.”
Iran and Turkey Working to Convene OIC Summit
He said: “Iran is focused on regional and Muslim countries. The UN Charter and international treaties obligate all nations to act to stop genocide in Palestine. Turkey, as the current chair of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, is working to hold an emergency summit.”
1975 Algiers Accord Remains the Basis for Iran–Iraq Border
Speaking on Iran–Iraq cooperation and pilgrim transfers, Baghaei said: “The 1975 Algiers Agreement still forms the legal basis for border demarcation, and the Foreign Ministry is actively following up on this issue through relevant committees.”
Diplomacy Is a Tool to Safeguard National Interests
Baghaei stated: “The Foreign Ministry monitors developments and uses diplomacy as a tool to secure national interests.”
Untold Stories From the 12-Day War
WANA (Jul 27) – In a detailed interview, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, provided new insights into the behind-the-scenes decisions surrounding recent military operations, assassination attempts, ceasefire arrangements with Israel, and negotiations with the United States. Araghchi and the 14th Government’s View on Operation “True Promise 2” He explained, “When Martyr […]
Israeli Ceasefires Cannot Be Trusted
He emphasized: “The Zionist regime has consistently violated ceasefires. The only thing that guarantees Iran’s security is its defense capability.”
Rubio’s Claim Is Pure Fiction
In response to Marco Rubio’s claim that Iran had sought help from Russia, China, and North Korea during the Iran–Iraq War, Baghaei said: “These statements are fictional and baseless. We have no reaction to such remarks.”
The Zionist Regime Is Doomed to Defeat
Baghaei said: “Iran has always supported the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and proposed a referendum. A regime that seeks to destroy a people is doomed to fail.”
Censored Interview: Tehran Responds to Fox News’ Distortion of Its Official Position on Israel
WANA (Jul 22) – Following the selective airing of an exclusive interview with Iran’s Foreign Minister on Fox News, the media team affiliated with Seyed Abbas Araghchi released portions of the omitted content, denouncing what it described as a distortion of the Islamic Republic’s official stance on Israel. Araghchi’s media office stated that the […]
Over 150 Pages of Evidence Submitted Against Israel at the UN
He said: “Since the beginning of Israel’s aggression, Iran has documented its crimes and has submitted over 150 pages of official records to the United Nations. A committee within the Legal Affairs Office of the Presidency and the Foreign Ministry is seriously pursuing this case.”
Istanbul Was Iran’s Choice for the Venue
Regarding the location of Iran–Europe negotiations, he said: “Istanbul was our chosen venue.”
Journalists Gather Outside Iranian Consulate in Turkey / WANA News Agency
Negotiation Must Not Be a Tool of Intimidation
Commenting on conditions for talks with the U.S., Baghaei said: “Negotiations must be based on respect, not threats and intimidation. Iran will only negotiate if its national interests are secured. Attacking IAEA-monitored facilities and inciting aggression is unprecedented and unacceptable.”
Caucasus Developments Must Be Resolved Regionally
Regarding claims about leasing the Zangezur Corridor, Baghaei said: “Such claims have been denied by other countries. Developments in the Caucasus must be resolved by regional actors.”
Death Penalty in Iran Is Reserved for the Most Severe Crimes
Baghaei said: “Punishment policies are a matter of national sovereignty. In Iran, the death penalty is applied only for the most serious crimes, and the Judiciary is working to restrict its use to exceptional cases.”
Two MEK Operatives Executed in Iran
WANA (Jul 27) – Iran’s Judiciary announced that the death sentences of two members of the Mojahedin-e-Khalq (MEK) — a designated terrorist group in Iran — were carried out this morning, July 27, 2025, after due legal process and confirmation by the Supreme Court. According to the official statement, the individuals — Mehdi Hassani, […]
Iran–China–Russia Talks Focused Only on Nuclear Issue
He noted: “The trilateral meeting focused on the nuclear issue and Resolution 2231. Unrelated topics were not on the agenda.”
Hirmand Water Rights and Arash Gas Field Are Still Being Pursued
Baghaei emphasized: “In all talks with the Afghan side, the Hirmand water issue has been raised. The Arash gas field case is also being actively followed.”
Iran’s Case Should Be Removed from the UN Security Council Agenda
In conclusion, the spokesman said: “If UN Security Council sanctions are reinstated, Iran will respond. There is no legal basis for reimposing such sanctions. Iran insists that its case must be removed from the Security Council’s agenda.”
