Aide to Leader Cautions on Iran’s Defensive Actions Against IAEA
A senior advisor to Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, has issued a warning that any threats directed at Iran may lead to the cessation of Tehran's collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the removal of its inspectors.
Ali Shamkhani, in a post on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, stated on Thursday that persistent external threats and subjecting Iran to potential military aggression could prompt the nation to take decisive actions, such as expelling inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and halting its collaboration with the organization.
The transfer of enriched materials to secure and undisclosed sites within Iran may also be under consideration, he added.
The comments arise amid escalating tensions, as Trump once again cautions that military intervention may be considered should Tehran fail to reach an agreement with Washington regarding its civilian nuclear program.
During a meeting with media and cultural activists in Algeria on Tuesday night, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the sole focus of the forthcoming negotiations with the US in Oman will be the nuclear issue and guarantees regarding the peaceful purpose of Iran’s atomic activities.
“The discussions on Saturday will focus exclusively on the nuclear issue, specifically ensuring transparency and providing guarantees regarding the peaceful intent of Iran’s nuclear program in return for the lifting of harsh sanctions, as outlined by the spokesperson.”
Araghchi highlighted that the forthcoming talks in Muscat present a renewed chance for diplomacy, describing them as “a test to assess the United States’ seriousness, considering its extensive record of non-commitment and unilateral actions”.
Russia has expressed openness towards engaging in discussions to establish a new agreement to supersede the 2015 nuclear deal, which Trump withdrew from in 2018.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that communications, both direct and indirect, are scheduled to occur in Oman. He expressed approval of these interactions, highlighting that they hold the potential to ease tensions involving Iran. Peskov emphasized Moscow’s full support for this initiative.
China has called on the United States to cease its approach of forceful pressure, following Trump’s warning of potential bombings against Iran if a deal was not reached.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that the United States should display genuine political sincerity and mutual respect, as it was the nation that unilaterally withdrew from the comprehensive agreement on the Iran nuclear issue, leading to the current circumstances.
