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Qabil Ashirov

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Relations between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are continuing within their traditional framework, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said Tuesday.

Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei said Iran's mission to the IAEA in Vienna remains in contact with relevant agency officials when necessary.

“Iran's representation in Vienna holds talks with the relevant sides of the agency wherever necessary. There are no discussions that would constitute a new process between Iran and the IAEA,” he said.

Baghaei also accused some IAEA officials, including Director General Rafael Grossi, of making statements at certain points that had been exploited by other parties.

“Iran still has a serious demand from the agency to align and regulate its conduct with the agency's statute,” he said. “Iran wants the agency to refrain from becoming involved in issues under the influence of the political ambitions of certain member states.”

The Iranian official also reiterated Tehran's previous statement that there had been no nuclear activities at Mount Kolang.

Tensions between Iran and the IAEA have increased amid a broader dispute over Iran's nuclear program and international efforts to resume negotiations.

The latest developments come amid renewed tensions between Iran and the United States.

On July 8, US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire had been violated and ordered new strikes against Iran. In response, Iran targeted US military facilities in the Persian Gulf region with missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Although Washington has not ruled out the possibility of Iran returning to negotiations, disagreements over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear program and other issues continue to cast uncertainty over the prospects for a broader peace process.

Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has also once again been brought close to a standstill, further highlighting the continuing risks surrounding the strategically important waterway.