Iran Ties Nuclear Talks To National Interests Amid U.S. Outreach

Araghchi stated that the upcoming visit of an IAEA delegation to Tehran does not include inspections of nuclear facilities. He condemned the agency’s recent performance as “poor,” particularly its report issued before the outbreak of war, which he claims led to an unfair resolution by the Board of Governors. “They accused Iran of issues they know are untrue, many of which date back over 20 years,” he said.

Iran also faulted the IAEA and its Director General for refusing to condemn the recent attacks on its nuclear infrastructure. President Masoud Pezeshkian had already announced the suspension of cooperation with the agency, a move solidified by legislation passed by Iran’s parliament in response to escalating tensions and the U.S.-Israeli military strikes.

Tensions escalated sharply in June when Israel launched a 12-day offensive on Iranian military and nuclear sites, assassinating scientists and commanders. The United States followed with its own attacks, claiming they had dismantled Iran’s nuclear program. Tehran retaliated by firing ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli targets and attacking the Al Udeid base in Qatar.

Despite the ceasefire declared on June 24 between Tehran and Tel Aviv, suspicions over Washington’s role persist. Araghchi insisted that Iran’s peaceful nuclear intentions remain unchanged, reaffirming that the program’s purpose is energy generation—not weapons development.