Baghaei: Regional Stability Central to Iran–Saudi Recent Talks
WANA (Dec 01) – Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the visit of Saudi Arabia’s deputy foreign minister to Tehran focused on bilateral relations as well as regional issues of shared concern, including the situations in occupied Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria. He said these topics were discussed during meetings between the Saudi official and Iranian diplomats, including the foreign minister.
Baghaei, speaking at his weekly press conference, also noted recent diplomatic activity, including last week’s visit by the Turkish foreign minister to Tehran and visits on Sunday by the deputy foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and South Korea, who held talks with senior Iranian officials.
Addressing developments in Lebanon and Gaza, he stated that Israel continues to violate the ceasefire in both areas.
Saudi Deputy FM’s Trip Part of Improving Tehran–Riyadh Relations
Baghaei said the Saudi deputy foreign minister’s trip was part of a process that began nearly two years ago to improve Iran–Saudi relations.
He said ties have been moving in a positive direction, and the latest talks again covered bilateral issues and regional topics, including Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. Both countries, he said, remain committed to strengthening confidence and regional cooperation to enhance stability and security in West Asia.
EU Contacts and the Foreign Minister’s Trip to France
Asked whether the foreign minister’s recent trip to France was linked to a subsequent phone call between EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi, Baghaei said the call had been scheduled beforehand. He added that the minister’s Paris discussions included the nuclear issue, and naturally, the call with Kallas included a reference to that visit.
Iran, EU Hold Talks on Regional Tensions
WANA (Nov 28) – Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, held a telephone conversation on Friday evening to discuss relations between Iran and the European Union as well as regional and international developments. Araghchi, referring to what he described as […]
Upcoming Visit by Turkey’s President
Baghaei confirmed that Tehran and Ankara have agreed in principle on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s upcoming visit to Iran for the High-Level Cooperation Council, and that the two sides are now working to finalize the date.
Iran Rejects Claims of Interference in Lebanon
Responding to accusations from some Lebanese officials and media outlets, Baghaei said any claim of Iranian interference in Lebanon’s internal affairs is “meaningless.” He stressed that all Lebanese issues belong solely to the Lebanese people. Iran, he said, is aware of Lebanon’s difficult situation as a neighbor of an “occupying regime” subject to ongoing attacks.
He reaffirmed Iran’s solidarity with Lebanon and its resistance. He argued that the real interference in Lebanon comes from parties that set deadlines and dictate terms to different components of the Lebanese government. Iran, he said, has consistently supported Lebanon and will continue to do so.
Iran and the Disarmament Project of the Resistance in Lebanon
WANA (Aug 16) – While much of the media’s attention is fixed on Lebanon’s crisis, what is unfolding in Beirut is far more than an internal affair—it is directly tied to Iran’s future. The project to disarm Hezbollah, pursued under pressure from Washington and Riyadh, targets not only Lebanon’s fragile balance but also one of […]
Iran Condemns Australia’s Action Against IRGC
Baghaei criticized Australia’s recent measures targeting the IRGC, calling them baseless and legally unfounded. He said the move follows earlier decisions based on “false information” promoted by Israeli intelligence and has harmed longstanding Iran–Australia relations.
He noted that Australian officials, including police in Sydney, have officially acknowledged that Iran had no involvement in alleged actions against Jewish targets.
He said similar unsubstantiated accusations have been raised in Africa and previously in Mexico, where the Mexican government quickly rejected the claims. He urged all countries to be alert to Israeli attempts to damage Iran’s foreign relations.
Official Condemnation Of Australia’s IRGC Designation
WANA (Nov 27) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran has denounced the Australian government’s decision to place the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on its so-called list of “state sponsors of terrorism,” describing the move as unjustified, politically motivated, and contrary to principles of international law. According to […]
Iran Says U.S. Actions Are Major Threat to Global Security
Baghaei sharply criticized recent U.S. threats against Venezuela, including moves involving the country’s airspace. He said the United States has become the “greatest threat” to international peace and security, pointing to U.S. coercive behavior worldwide—in Venezuela, Cuba, Nicaragua, Brazil, and Mexico, and even attempting to bar some states, such as South Africa, from participating in the G20.
He also accused the U.S. of fully supporting Israel, making Washington complicit in “genocide” and violations of sovereignty in the region. Under normal circumstances, he said, the UN Security Council should address these violations as major breaches of the UN Charter’s prohibition on the use or threat of force.
Baghaei warned that U.S. actions risk becoming a model for other actors, leading to the normalization of lawbreaking in international relations—something that harms all states and the global community.
Araghchi Met Mahdieh Esfandiari in France
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed that during FM Abbas Araghchi’s trip to France, he met detained Iranian national Mahdieh Esfandiari. Her condition was described as good, and Tehran hopes the ongoing process will soon lead to her release and return.
He said part of Iran’s national interest is protecting Iranian citizens abroad, and Araghchi’s remarks to France 24 about prisoner exchanges reflect this policy.
Mahdieh Esfandiari Released on Conditional Freedom in France
WANA (Oct 23) – Mahdieh Esfandiari, an Iranian citizen detained in France for 235 days on charges of supporting the Palestinian people, was conditionally released on Wednesday night (October 22) following a French judge’s ruling. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei confirmed the news, stating that Iran’s Embassy in Paris had been informed of the […]
Iran Condemns Terrorism Everywhere
Commenting on Iran’s position regarding Turkey’s disarmament campaign against the PKK, the spokesperson reiterated that Iran condemns terrorism in all forms and locations.
He said insecurity in one area spreads to others, and that Tehran wants the concept of “a Turkey without terrorism” to expand into “a region without terrorism.” He added that Iran and Turkey’s foreign ministers agree on strengthening regional cooperation against terrorism.
Tehran–Caracas Relations
Responding to questions about developments in Venezuela and seeking Asylum by Venezuelan officials, the spokesperson called such questions “insulting” to Venezuelans and said U.S. attempts to dictate Venezuela’s internal affairs lack any legal basis.
Regarding Iran’s embassy in Caracas, he said it remains fully active. He stressed that U.S. accusations about drug trafficking are unfounded and cannot justify the use of force under international law. He urged the international community to push back against U.S. unilateralism.
The flags of Iran and Venezuela are seen when Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro arrives at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, Iran, June 10, 2022. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Nuclear Program: No Deadlock; Iran Will Fully Exercise Its NPT Rights
Asked about a supposed impasse over Iran’s nuclear program, the spokesperson rejected the notion, saying Iran is merely exercising its rights under the NPT.
He argued that concerns over Iran’s program were artificially imposed on Iran, the region, and international bodies.
He said Western demands without a legal basis are the real obstacle, and that Iran—while respecting its obligations—remains determined to use all rights granted by the NPT.
Multinational Counterterrorism Drill in Northwest Iran
Iran announced an ongoing joint counterterrorism exercise in the northwest, involving field participation from five countries and total involvement from 13–14 nations.
The spokesperson said the drill reflects Iran’s commitment to coordinated, multilateral counterterrorism efforts and expressed hope that such cooperation will expand to combat other transnational organized crimes.
SCO Anti-Terrorism Drill “Sahand 2025” to Be Held in Iran
WANA (Dec 01) – A joint anti-terrorism exercise among Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states, titled “Sahand-2025 Joint Anti-Terrorism Drill,” is set to be hosted by the IRGC Ground Forces in Iran’s East Azerbaijan Province. Shahram Askaryan, Deputy for Public Relations of the IRGC Ground Forces, announced the news, stating that the “Sahand 2025” […]
Continued Consultations with E3 and the EU
Discussing Araghchi’s recent call with EU High Representative Kaja Kallas and his talks with France’s foreign minister, the spokesperson said diplomacy continues despite European escalations, including draft resolutions at the UN Security Council and IAEA Board of Governors.
He emphasized that dialogue does not mean formal negotiations but is part of normal diplomatic engagement. Iran’s consultations with the E3 and the EU will continue.
U.S. as the “Largest Destroyer” of the Non-Proliferation Regime
The spokesperson strongly criticized U.S. non-proliferation policies, calling Washington the biggest challenge to the global non-proliferation regime.
He cited U.S. double standards toward Israel’s nuclear arsenal, its stated intention to resume nuclear testing, and its role in global insecurity. He also referenced the U.S. attack on Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities as a clear violation of the NPT’s principles.
An Iranian woman walks past an anti-U.S. billboard on a street in Tehran, Iran, November 5, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
U.S. Contradictions Show Nuclear Issue Is a Pretext
He stated that contradictions in U.S. policy toward Iran demonstrate that the nuclear issue has merely been an excuse to impose pressure on the Iranian people.
Iran Condemns Attacks on Kurdistan Region Gas Facilities
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson condemned recent attacks on gas fields in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, calling them “absolutely unacceptable.”
He said Iran has expressed its concerns over all anti-security activities in Iraq and supports any cooperation with Baghdad to ensure security on both sides of the border. He warned of actors seeking to destabilize the region, especially “Zionist regime movements.”
Tehran Blames U.S. and Israel for Disrupting IAEA Inspections
The spokesperson said Iran’s nuclear program has always been monitored by the IAEA and that Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan sites undergo continuous inspections.
He stressed that the recent inspection disruption resulted from “military aggression and criminal actions by the U.S. and the Zionist regime,” criticizing the IAEA Board of Governors and the UN Security Council for failing to acknowledge or condemn the attacks.
Did Iran’s Nuclear Industry Collapse or Not?
WANA (Jun 30) – B-2 bombers took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, flew a 37-hour round trip, refueled multiple times mid-air, and dropped their 15-ton bunker-buster bombs on nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. But now, a fundamental question is being asked — not just in Iran, but in the U.S., […]
He argued the IAEA cannot claim Iran breached commitments at facilities damaged by military attacks, noting that the Agency has no inspection protocol for such situations. He added that Iran reached an understanding with the IAEA last September after three rounds of talks, but “the other side undermined the process.”
No New Security Warning Delivered to Iran
Asked about reports of Israeli fighter jets possibly being present in Iraq and Netanyahu’s comments about “extraordinary events,” the spokesperson said no new warnings or security assessments had been conveyed to Iran by Turkey or Saudi Arabia.
Iran Says It Maintains Full Readiness Amid Regional Tensions
Commenting on recent visits by senior Turkish and Saudi officials, he said talks focused on bilateral ties and regional developments, especially ongoing Israeli aggression.
He referred to Israel as an inherently crisis-creating actor with decades of destabilizing behavior.
The spokesperson stated that Iran, drawing on experience “from the 12-day battle,” will remain fully prepared to counter any threat and prevent Israel from implementing “its destructive plans.”
Jet Flyovers Spark Questions About a New Iran–Israel Escalation
WANA (Nov 26) – Last midnight, the region once again witnessed movements that many described as a “mutual testing” between Iran and Israel. Some Iraqi and Hebrew-language media outlets claimed that Israeli fighter jets briefly entered Iraqi airspace and flew near Iran’s borders. Reports even mentioned ‘simulated launch maneuvers’; an action that, if true, […]
Tehran Highlights Importance of Iran–China Railway Corridor
He described the Iran–China rail corridor as highly important for Iran, noting that all participating states share a common interest in accelerating the project. Iranian officials are in regular contact with Beijing, and progress has recently been made.
Iran Says Europe’s Call for Negotiations Is “Public Relations”
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson responded to France’s recent statement following Araghchi’s Wednesday meeting in Paris—particularly the directive that “Iran must return to the negotiating table as soon as possible.”
He said that Europe’s repeated claim of being “ready to negotiate” does not change the reality that “the other side is not actually prepared for talks.”
He questioned what “table” Iran is supposed to return to, noting that Europeans consistently tell Iran to “go talk to the United States,” which, he argued, shows they do not believe they can play an independent, responsible, or effective diplomatic role. He added that Europe may lack the capability and confidence to meet its responsibilities.
The spokesperson concluded that such statements should be viewed more as public relations messaging than positions backed by genuine goodwill or practical commitment.
Araghchi: U.S. Policies Have Blocked Any Path to Negotiations
WANA (Nov 30) – Iran’s foreign minister stated that “because of the policies pursued by the United States, negotiations are currently impossible.” This was the central point of his remarks on the sidelines of his meeting with Turkey’s foreign minister, where Araghchi explicitly stressed that Washington’s “excessive demands and coercive approach” have effectively eliminated the […]
Iran Criticizes U.S. Restrictions on Foreign Nationals
Commenting on new U.S. limitations on citizens of about 20 countries—including a review of green cards ordered by President Trump—the spokesperson said Iran will defend its citizens’ rights. He described the policy as another example of racism in the American governance system and political bargaining at the expense of individuals’ basic rights.
Israel Violating Lebanon Ceasefire Thousands of Times, Iran Says
On the Lebanon ceasefire’s first anniversary, he said Israel has violated it roughly 10,000 times since last November, according to UNIFIL.
He argued that this means the ceasefire “practically does not exist” and accused Israel of using the period to intensify attacks, conduct assassinations, kill civilians, and hinder Lebanon’s economic recovery by targeting construction-related facilities. He said ceasefire guarantors have failed to act, damaging their credibility.
Trump Orders Review of Green Cards for Iranian Immigrants
WANA (Nov 28) – U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered a renewed review of permanent residency permits (green cards) issued to immigrants from several countries, including Iran. The U.S. government announced on Thursday that it has initiated a “comprehensive and stringent review” of all green cards issued to immigrants from what it calls “countries […]
Central Bank Governor’s Trip to Afghanistan Coordinated With MFA
He confirmed the Central Bank governor’s recent trip to Afghanistan was fully coordinated with Iran’s Economic Diplomacy division. Iran is working with Afghanistan on strengthening trade, cross-border markets, customs facilitation, and economic ties. He did not confirm plans for a joint Iran–Afghanistan bank but said cooperation will continue.
Claims of U.S.–Terrorist Cooperation “Not New”
Responding to revelations by a former CIA chief in Tel Aviv about U.S. cooperation with al-Qaeda and ISIS during the Syrian conflict, he said such claims are not new and have been acknowledged previously by U.S. officials.
25-Year Iran–China Agreement Progress “Positive,” Tehran Says
He said Iran’s assessment of developments related to the 25-year comprehensive cooperation agreement with China is “fully positive.” Both sides remain committed to continuing implementation and resolving challenges as they arise within the multi-component long-term roadmap.
Saudi Official’s Visit Was a Response to an Earlier Trip
Responding to a question about the Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister’s visit to Iran and the participation of Iran’s special envoy for Syria in the meeting—and whether the visit focused on Syria—the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the trip was carried out in response to an earlier visit by Sheibani, Iran’s Special Envoy for Syria, to Saudi Arabia.
Ali Larijani in Saudi Arabia. Social media / WANA News Agency
He emphasized that all regional issues—from Gaza and Lebanon to Syria—are interconnected and important to Iran. However, he confirmed that this particular visit was primarily centered on Syria, and that the Saudi official met both the Foreign Minister and Iran’s special envoy for Syrian affairs during his time in Tehran.
He added that such consultations are not new: “We have been engaging in these discussions not only with Saudi Arabia but with other regional states as well. Syria’s security matters to the entire region.” He highlighted shared concerns in the region over ongoing Israeli attacks on Syria and the continued occupation of Syrian territories, which has recently expanded with the involvement of Israeli officials.
Saudi Arabia is Not Acting as a Mediator Between Iran and Syria
In response to a question about whether Saudi Arabia is mediating between Iran and Syria, the spokesperson said: “We cannot say that Saudi Arabia is a mediator between Iran and Syria’s new authorities.”
He explained that Iran naturally holds talks with all countries connected to both sides—but not to create a “channel,” rather to help improve regional and security conditions and stay informed about each other’s perspectives.
