Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Thursday strongly criticized International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi, accusing him of siding with Israel amid the ongoing conflict. Baghaei claimed the UN nuclear watchdog has become a “partner to an unjust war of aggression” that Israel has allegedly launched against Iran.
Speaking during a press briefing in Tehran, Baghaei said, “The IAEA, under Grossi’s leadership, has failed to maintain neutrality and is actively enabling Israeli aggression by echoing biased narratives.” He further added that Grossi’s recent statements have ignored Israel’s attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities and focused only on Iran’s obligations.
Baghaei accused the agency of turning a blind eye to Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, including what Tehran claims are civilian research sites. He warned that continued silence from international bodies like the IAEA would only embolden Israel and increase the threat of a broader regional war.
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Iran Claims Bias in IAEA’s Conduct
The Iranian official also criticized the IAEA’s inspections and reporting practices, alleging that the agency applies double standards. “Iran has fully cooperated with the IAEA within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), yet we are treated like violators while Israel, a nuclear-armed regime, operates with total impunity,” Baghaei stated.
He added that Grossi’s refusal to condemn Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear sites exposes the politicization of the agency’s mandate. According to Iran, several of its facilities have been targeted by Israel in recent strikes, including near the cities of Isfahan and Khondab, where research reactors and uranium processing centers are located.
Baghaei emphasized that Iran continues to support peaceful nuclear energy development under international law. He called for the IAEA to “regain its credibility by upholding justice and balance”, especially at a time when nuclear threats in the region are on the rise.
Tehran’s remarks come amid increasing international pressure over its nuclear program, with European countries and the US calling for renewed inspections and transparency. Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are entirely peaceful and fall within its rights under the NPT.
Diplomatic Tensions Widen Amid Escalating Conflict
The growing diplomatic rift between Tehran and international institutions like the IAEA reflects the rising tensions between Iran and Israel, which have intensified in recent weeks. As both nations exchange direct attacks and missile strikes, international bodies have struggled to remain neutral.
Iran has accused the West of supporting Israeli military operations through silence and double standards, while simultaneously criticizing Iran for defending its sovereignty. Tehran argues that this imbalance is fueling instability across the region.
In his concluding remarks, Baghaei warned that the UN and its affiliated bodies risk losing legitimacy in the eyes of developing nations if they continue to take sides. He urged the international community to push for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolution rather than further isolating Iran.
The IAEA has yet to respond to Baghaei’s remarks. Rafael Grossi had previously expressed concerns over Iran’s uranium enrichment levels and called for increased cooperation, but avoided commenting on Israel’s military actions directly.