WANA (May 05) – Esmail Baghaei, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, stated that simultaneous messages from the U.S. President—sanctions on one hand and calls for negotiation on the other—are contradictory and unhelpful, though they will not impact Iran’s resolve in upholding its principled positions.

 

Foreign Minister’s Visit to Pakistan and India

Regarding the Foreign Minister’s trip to Pakistan, Baghaei said it is part of ongoing consultations with neighboring countries. Regional issues, especially Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria, will be central to talks with senior Pakistani officials. He also noted that the Foreign Minister will visit India on Thursday to attend the Iran-India Joint Economic Commission.

Iran Does Not Negotiate in Public

Responding to U.S. remarks on Iran’s supposed lack of need for nuclear energy, Baghaei stressed that Iran will not negotiate through media. He reiterated Iran’s consistent stance on its peaceful nuclear rights under international law, asserting the scientific necessity of nuclear energy given the country’s growing needs.

 

Talks Focus Solely on Nuclear and Sanctions Issues

In reaction to the French Foreign Minister’s proposal to include non-nuclear topics in talks, Baghaei said this is not acceptable to Iran. Negotiations will remain strictly focused on nuclear issues and sanctions relief. He attributed delays in the meeting with the European troika to logistical reasons and overlapping indirect talks with the U.S.

 

Awaiting Oman’s Position on Next Round of Talks

Baghaei confirmed Iran’s readiness to continue indirect talks with the U.S., explaining that delays occurred based on Oman’s proposal and mutual agreement. Iran now awaits Oman’s final stance on the timing and venue.

 

U.S. Claim of No Scheduled Meeting Is False

Dismissing U.S. claims that no meeting was planned for Saturday, Baghaei said Iran acted transparently, and postponement was a joint decision based on Oman’s initiative—not part of any negotiation game.

 

U.S. National Security Team Changes Are Internal Matters

Asked about changes in the U.S. National Security Council, Baghaei responded that such matters are internal to the U.S., and Iran judges its counterpart by official positions and conduct at the negotiating table.

 

Support for Palestine at ICJ Meeting

On Iran’s presence at the International Court of Justice hearing on aid to Gaza, Baghaei said it reflects support for the Palestinian people. He noted Iran’s past participation in similar sessions and emphasized that the focus should be on the ongoing genocide, not secondary issues. Nearly 40 countries attended, with only the U.S. and the UK opposing.

 

Iran-Russia Comprehensive Treaty Underway

Baghaei stated that Russia has completed its internal approval process for the comprehensive treaty with Iran, and Tehran is actively following up.

 

U.S. Cannot Dictate to Lebanon

Responding to U.S. pressure to disarm Lebanese resistance groups, Baghaei said America is in no position to impose its views on Lebanon. Resistance arms are part of the legitimate right to self-defense, particularly against the Zionist regime.

 

Iran Will Respond Forcefully to Any Military Aggression

Addressing Israeli military threats, Baghaei warned that Iran and its armed forces will respond with full strength to any aggression.

If U.S. Is Genuine, Issues Can Be Resolved

Baghaei reiterated Iran’s readiness to pursue diplomacy to resolve nuclear and sanctions-related matters, asserting that if the U.S. is sincere in opposing nuclear weapons, many issues can be resolved. Iran has consistently shown it does not seek nuclear arms.

Iran Prioritizes National Interests Over Deal Names

On the nuclear deal (JCPOA), Baghaei said Iran values substance over the name. The focus is on protecting national interests, preserving its nuclear industry, and achieving effective sanctions relief.

 

Israel Seeks Syria’s Disintegration

Baghaei condemned Israeli strikes in Syria, describing them as attempts to sow division and dismantle the country, rather than protect minorities. He called on regional countries to respond decisively.

 

Iran’s Right to Enrich Uranium Is Legitimate

Rejecting claims that Iran’s oil reserves negate the need for nuclear energy, Baghaei pointed out that even oil-rich nations like the U.S. have nuclear programs. Iran’s nuclear efforts are longstanding and grounded in international law, serving future energy needs.

 

Regional Consultations Continue for Syrian Stability

On Syria, Baghaei affirmed Iran’s opposition to attacks on its infrastructure and people, and support for any effort preserving Syria’s territorial integrity. He noted continued consultations by Iran’s special envoy to enhance regional security.

Iran Has No Need for Proxies

Responding to claims that Yemen’s Ansarallah acts on Iran’s behalf, Baghaei stated Iran does not need proxies. Ansarallah’s decisions are independent, and accusations against Iran are baseless.