WANA (Nov 14) – President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that “Iran’s pursuit of nuclear technology fully aligns with the legal frameworks and authorizations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA),” adding that Iran is open to collaboration with the IAEA. He emphasized that the international community now understands that Iran is committed to promoting global peace and security.

 

On Thursday, November 24, 2023, during a meeting with Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the IAEA, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s stance on peaceful nuclear activities and its firm principle against nuclear weapons. He said, “As we have repeatedly declared, based on a clear religious decree from the Supreme Leader, we neither pursue nor will we ever pursue nuclear weapons, and no one is allowed to deviate from this policy.”

 

Pezeshkian explained that Iran’s nuclear pursuits are in full compliance with IAEA guidelines and the rights granted by this organization to all nations. “Having demonstrated our goodwill multiple times, we are ready to cooperate with this international body to clear any misunderstandings about our peaceful nuclear activities. Indeed, the world has come to recognize that Iran is committed to peace and global security,” he said.

 

 

Referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and the subsequent breach by the United States and European countries, he continued: “The IAEA has repeatedly confirmed Iran’s adherence to its commitments, yet it was the United States that unilaterally exited the agreement, obstructing the way forward.”

 

The President also addressed the dire conditions in the region, especially the tragic events in Gaza and Lebanon resulting from Israeli aggression. “I campaigned on a platform of unity at home and diplomacy abroad. Unfortunately, on my first day in office, Israel assassinated Ismail Haniyeh in a criminal act, shattering our hopes for peace. Since then, they have only escalated the crisis through violence and bloodshed.”

 

He condemned Israel’s actions, stating that the regime “has flagrantly violated all international laws, including targeting women, children, hospitals, schools, and residential areas, and yet, instead of facing accountability, it is supported and armed by nations that claim to stand for human rights.” He urged human rights advocates and international bodies to respond decisively and not remain silent.

 

Pezeshkian concluded by stating, “We believe that war benefits neither us, the region, nor the world. No rational person seeks conflict, but we will respond firmly to any act against our security.”

 

 

Grossi: Positive Iran-IAEA Cooperation Can Counter Misinformation

In response, Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the IAEA, praised Pezeshkian’s peaceful and unifying approach, and expressed gratitude for the cooperation of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization and Foreign Ministry. Reviewing Iran’s constructive relationship with the IAEA, he stated, “We are convinced that your presidency will usher in a new chapter of positive relations between Iran and the IAEA.”

 

Grossi further emphasized, “Positive interaction and collaboration between Iran and the Agency will undoubtedly neutralize efforts to undermine Iran’s nuclear activities.”