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Iranian foreign relations

Iran Suspends Cooperation with IAEA, Halting Nuclear Program Oversight

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Iranian lawmakers have voted to block oversight of the country's nuclear program by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), sparking concerns about the country's intentions. The move comes after the US and Israel bombed several Iranian nuclear sites, and weeks after Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian signed legislation halting cooperation with the agency. IAEA inspectors have departed from Iran, and the agency's director general has emphasized the importance of resuming monitoring and verification activities.

Key Takeaways:

  • Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian signed legislation halting cooperation with the IAEA, blocking oversight of Iran's nuclear program.
  • Inspectors will not be allowed to visit nuclear sites without approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council.
  • Iranian lawmakers have given two conditions for resuming cooperation: the safety of its nuclear program and scientists, and an acknowledgment about its right under international law to enrich uranium.
  • The IAEA's director general, Rafael Grossi, has expressed concern about Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which remains unaccounted for.
  • Grossi estimates that the destruction of several nuclear sites in Iran may have delayed the program by only a few months, rather than several years.
  • Iran has been critical of a resolution by the IAEA accusing the country of non-compliance with its nuclear obligations.
  • The US and Iran have been engaged in talks for a nuclear deal, which has been paused due to the recent conflict.

Statistics:

  • Iran has stockpiled about 900 pounds of uranium enriched to 60% purity, enough to build nine bombs.
  • This is an increase of 50% since February.
  • In December, the IAEA reported that Iran was rapidly moving closer to the 90% threshold needed for weapons-grade material.
  • The US unilaterally exited the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with Iran in 2018, reimposing harsh sanctions.
  • The United States, Britain, Germany, France, Russia, China, and the European Union reached a deal with Iran in 2015.

Sources:

  • UPI, July 4: "UN nuclear inspectors leave Iran after suspension of cooperation"
  • International Atomic Energy Agency, June 12: "IAEA Board of Governors Resolution"
  • NBC News, July 3: "Iran's deputy foreign minister says US must convince Iran it won't use military force while negotiating"
  • CBS News, July 5: "IAEA inspector says Iran's nuclear program 'obliviated' by US bombing"
  • International Atomic Energy Agency, May: "IAEA Board of Governors Report"
  • BBC News, December 2019: "Iran 'racing to 90%' in nuclear enrichment"

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