UN Nuclear Watchdog Urges Implementation Of New Deal With Iran
The UN atomic watchdog's chief called Monday for the implementation of a cooperation framework it struck last week with Iran, saying it was essential to "restore confidence" after the agency's work was halted.
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- From: India News Bull
On Monday, the head of the UN nuclear watchdog emphasized the importance of implementing the cooperation framework recently established with Iran, stating it was crucial to "rebuild trust" after the agency's operations were suspended.
Last week in Cairo, Iran entered into an agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), following its suspension of cooperation amid the conflict with Israel in June.
During the 12-day military exchange, Israeli and American forces struck critical Iranian nuclear installations, which have since remained inaccessible to IAEA inspectors.
Speaking at the opening session of the agency's annual General Conference, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stressed the necessity to implement the agreement "to rebuild trust" and enable the agency "to maintain our operations despite these challenging circumstances".
"The responsibility now lies with Iran and ourselves to execute" the agreement that "outlines the technical measures and practical steps required... to resume this essential work in Iran," Grossi stated in his address.
Iranian officials have indicated that the new framework permits access for UN nuclear inspectors only upon authorization from the Supreme National Security Council, Iran's highest security authority.
In his address to the general conference, Mohamed Eslami, head of Iran's atomic energy organization, noted that following the attacks on its nuclear facilities, "future collaboration with the agency will be conducted under new arrangements once our nation's security concerns and those of our nuclear installations are properly addressed".
"At present, no mechanism exists within the safeguards agreement for continuing engagement during such critical situations following aggression and ongoing threats against nuclear sites and facilities," he explained.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that Iran "remains committed" to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) despite passing legislation that ceased cooperation with the IAEA.
Western nations have consistently voiced concerns about the expansion of Iran's nuclear program, which Tehran accelerated after the United States unilaterally withdrew from the landmark 2015 agreement limiting its nuclear activities.
Iran has consistently denied allegations that it seeks to develop nuclear weapons.