US reacts to ‘calls for execution’ of IAEA chief
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has condemned reported calls in Iran to execute Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Rubio’s comments came after Iranian newspaper Kayhan reportedly accused Grossi of spying for Israel and suggested that, if he enters the country, he should be tried and executed.
“Calls in Iran for the arrest and execution of IAEA Director General Grossi are unacceptable and should be condemned,” Rubio wrote on X on Saturday.
“We support the IAEA’s critical verification and monitoring efforts in Iran and commend the Director General and the IAEA for their dedication and professionalism. We call on Iran to ensure the safety and security of IAEA personnel,” he added.
Earlier this week, Iran’s parliament voted to suspend cooperation with the UN watchdog. Following the vote, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that Grossi would be barred from entering the country.
Speaking to RT on Saturday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the Iranian public is angry at the IAEA for failing to strongly condemn recent Israeli and US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Israel has claimed the strikes were necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Baghaei reiterated that Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful, adding that there has been no weapons-grade enrichment of uranium.
