Tehran: Iran has expressed a lack of trust in the leadership of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), specifically targeting Director General Rafael Grossi for what is perceived as a politicized management of Iran's nuclear dossier. Behrouz Kamalvandi, the spokesman for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), made these remarks through the state news agency IRNA.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kamalvandi accused Grossi of prioritizing political aims over professional integrity, suggesting that the reports and statements issued by Grossi have intensified political pressure on Iran from European nations, the United States, and Israel. Kamalvandi emphasized the need for the agency to focus on its professional and technical responsibilities rather than political agendas.

Kamalvandi defended Iran's decision to limit IAEA access to certain nuclear facilities, citing security concerns due to the ongoing conflict. He argued that adversaries of Iran might use sensitive information for further attacks, thus underlining the importance of safeguarding information related to nuclear sites.

Concerns over the confidentiality of information shared with the IAEA were also addressed by Kamalvandi. He stated that unless adequate protection is guaranteed, Iran should not be expected to provide comprehensive information to the agency.

Additionally, there have been restrictions placed on IAEA inspections of facilities impacted by the conflict with the United States. While Grossi has called for inspectors to be allowed to verify nuclear activities and materials, Tehran remains cautious.

Kamalvandi also commented on the situation involving AEOI chief Mohammad Eslami, who was set to attend the IAEA General Conference in Vienna. While Austria had initially issued a multiple-entry Schengen visa to Eslami, it later indicated that the visit should not proceed, which Kamalvandi attributed to US influence. This led Iran to summon Austria's charge d'affaires in Tehran to register a formal protest against the decision.