Thu Nov 21 22:43:41 UTC 2024: ## IAEA Condemns Iran’s Lack of Nuclear Cooperation, Demands Answers on Undeclared Sites
**Vienna, Austria – November 22, 2024** – The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board of governors has strongly condemned Iran for its continued lack of cooperation in ongoing investigations into its nuclear program. This marks the second such condemnation in five months.
A resolution, spearheaded by France, Germany, and the UK with US support, passed with 19 votes in favor, three against (Russia, China, and Burkina Faso), and 13 abstentions. The resolution specifically addresses Iran’s failure to provide credible explanations for the presence of uranium particles at two undeclared sites near Tehran: Varamin and Turquzabad.
The IAEA has evidence suggesting Varamin was used from 1999 to 2003 to process uranium ore, while Turquzabad potentially received material from Varamin following the demolition of facilities at the former site. The agency insists these findings cannot be explained by Iran’s claims of a solely peaceful nuclear program.
The resolution demands Iran provide technically credible explanations for the uranium particles, disclose the current location of the material, and grant IAEA inspectors full access to all Iranian nuclear sites. Failure to comply could lead to further action, including referral to the UN Security Council for potential sanctions.
The IAEA’s director general, Rafael Grossi, is mandated to submit a comprehensive assessment of Iran’s nuclear activities by Spring 2025. This assessment could trigger further steps by European nations, potentially escalating tensions with Iran, especially as the 2015 Iran nuclear deal approaches its expiration in October 2025.
The timing of the resolution is significant, coinciding with the impending return of Donald Trump to the White House. His previous “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, including withdrawal from the nuclear deal, significantly impacted the country’s economy. Iran has previously reacted to similar IAEA resolutions by expanding its nuclear activities. There has been no immediate official comment from Tehran.
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