Fri Nov 22 09:18:31 UTC 2024: ## UN Nuclear Watchdog Condemns Iran for Lack of Cooperation, Demands Answers on Uranium

**Vienna, Austria** – The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board of governors has issued a resolution condemning Iran for its lack of cooperation regarding its nuclear program. The resolution, spearheaded by France, Germany, the UK, and the US, cites the IAEA’s “deep concern” over undeclared nuclear material found at two locations near Tehran – Varamin and Turquzabad. The resolution specifically calls on Iran to provide technically credible explanations for the presence of uranium particles at these sites.

While IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reported making some progress during a recent visit to Tehran, including an agreement to cap high-enriched uranium at 60 percent purity, the resolution highlights Iran’s failure to fully declare its nuclear activities as required under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

In response to the censure, Iran has announced it will activate “new and advanced” centrifuges. The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the resolution, stating that technical cooperation with the IAEA will continue, albeit within the framework of existing agreements. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the resolution as further complicating ongoing nuclear talks.

The vote saw 19 members supporting the resolution, with Russia, China, and Burkina Faso opposed, and 12 abstentions. This marks a continuation of the pattern of China and Russia opposing censure measures against Iran at the IAEA.

The timing of the resolution comes as the US prepares for a new presidential administration, potentially reigniting tensions given the previous administration’s “maximum pressure” policy toward Iran and Iran’s subsequent escalation of its nuclear enrichment program. The IAEA is expected to continue discussions on the matter.

Read More