Iran says IAEA board pressure and US talks are separate but linked

The IAEA Board of Governors’ actions and Iran’s negotiations with the United States are distinct issues, though each affects the other, Atomic Energy Organization chief Mohammad Eslami said Wednesday.

He noted that Iran is also engaged in parallel discussions with European states and countries.

“If the snapback mechanism is activated, we will make the necessary decisions at the appropriate time,” he warned.

Eslami said Iran’s central goal remains the removal of sanctions and relief from their economic impact.

“Every step we take in negotiations is aimed at easing the burden on the Iranian people,” he added.

Talks with the US continue indirectly, Eslami confirmed, and progress hinges on "genuine American goodwill."

“Whenever the other side, especially the US, shows real sincerity, honesty in its words, and seriousness in lifting sanctions, Iran will take appropriate and timely reciprocal steps,” he said.