Tehran, Iran – The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Thursday attacked statements made by the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi. It asserted that he is “fully aware of the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program” and urged him to refrain from making “unsubstantiated opinions” about Tehran’s nuclear activities.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman told a press conference in Tehran that “Grossi is fully aware that all Iranian nuclear activities are under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency.” He added that “Iran’s nuclear program is dedicated solely to peaceful purposes, including energy production and medical research.”
The spokesperson accused some Western countries of “exerting political pressure on the International Atomic Energy Agency to adopt biased positions against Iran.” He noted that his country “deals with complete transparency with international inspectors and allows them access to declared nuclear sites in accordance with signed agreements.”
Conversely, international reports indicate that satellite imagery has revealed increased activity at several Iranian nuclear sites in recent weeks. This has led observers to remark that “the pictures speak louder than official statements,” suggesting signs of development or expansion at some sensitive nuclear facilities.
This latest dispute between Tehran and the International Atomic Energy Agency comes at a time when nuclear talks between Iran and Western powers are at a near standstill. This occurs amid growing concerns about escalating tensions in the region, particularly given the continued sanctions on the Iranian economy.
Iran affirms that it will continue its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency “within the framework of international law.” However, it simultaneously rejects what it describes as “Western double standards” in dealing with its nuclear program compared to other countries in the region.
