Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu delivered a speech at the opening session of the 9th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), held in Fes, Morocco. Thanking UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres for his efforts on the grain agreement signed in Istanbul, Çavuşoğlu said, “Thanks to the initiative, grain prices have dropped to historic levels and there has been a global relief. Last week, we managed to extend the agreement for another 4 months together. Still, difficulties remain as the war continues. That is why we will continue to work closely with the United Nations.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR