Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed on Saturday that Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has not ceased, while warning European states that invoking the snapback mechanism would effectively end their involvement in Iran’s nuclear file.

In remarks delivered during a high-level meeting with ambassadors, chargés d'affaires, and heads of diplomatic missions in Tehran, Araghchi stated that Iran remains a committed member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and that its collaboration with the IAEA continues, albeit in a modified framework.

“Our cooperation with the Agency has not stopped — it has just taken a new form,” Araghchi said. “From now on, all interactions with the IAEA will be overseen by the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) and reviewed on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing safety and security.”

He explained that recent attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have raised critical concerns for both Iranian authorities and international inspectors.

“The fact is, our nuclear facilities were attacked. Proximity to these sites now entails risks, including radiation leaks or explosions. Inspectors’ safety is a key concern,” he added, referencing the April and June attacks reportedly carried out by Israel and supported by the United States.

Araghchi issued a strong warning to European powers, stating that if they proceed with activating the snapback mechanism — which could reimpose UN sanctions under the 2015 nuclear deal — they would eliminate their own relevance in resolving Iran’s nuclear issue.

“Europe must choose between being a facilitator of diplomacy or sabotaging the last remaining pathways. If they activate the snapback mechanism, their role will end,” he stated.

The Iranian foreign minister emphasized that returning to diplomacy is the only viable path forward, calling for a renewed, honest commitment from all parties.

“There is no other way but a negotiated and agreed solution,” he said. “However, the other side must first prove it truly wants diplomacy, not just use it as a cover to further its own agenda.”

Araghchi pointed to the timing of the June 13 Israeli and U.S. attack on Iran, which occurred just days before a planned sixth round of Omani-mediated talks in Rome set for June 15, as evidence that the West was not serious about peace.

In his remarks, Araghchi expressed gratitude to the 120 countries that condemned the Israeli and American aggression against Iran, calling the assault “a blatant act of war.” He reiterated that such violations of international law would not silence Iran or deter its pursuit of peaceful nuclear energy under international supervision.

Araghchi’s remarks come amid rising tensions between Iran and Western powers, particularly after the attacks on Iranian nuclear infrastructure and ongoing allegations surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities. While the IAEA has confirmed Iran’s adherence to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) framework, Western states, particularly in Europe, have increasingly pushed for punitive measures, including the snapback of UN sanctions.

By placing IAEA oversight under the SNSC, Iran appears to be asserting greater control over its nuclear program in response to both external military threats and perceived diplomatic duplicity.

The message from Tehran was clear: Iran remains open to diplomacy, but only with parties who respect its sovereignty, safety, and right to peaceful nuclear energy—and who do not launch wars while calling for negotiations. (ILKHA)