Iran has stated that it will not comply with the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) requests to inspect nuclear sites that have been damaged by military action. This decision comes after significant military strikes carried out by Israel and the United States in June, which targeted key nuclear facilities in Iran, including Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan.
Iran’s Stance on Nuclear Site Inspections
Mohammad Eslami, the head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, emphasized that the IAEA needs to establish clear guidelines regarding the inspection of sites affected by military strikes. Eslami pointed out that there is currently no formal framework for such inspections. He has urged the agency to clarify whether such military attacks are legitimate under international law.
- Key Locations Damaged:
- Natanz
- Fordo
- Isfahan
Eslami stated that if the military actions are not authorized, the IAEA should condemn them. He called for the agency to establish documented procedures for inspections following military conflicts.
Formal Requests to the IAEA
According to Eslami, Iran has formally requested the IAEA to clarify the steps to be taken if a nuclear facility falls under military attack. He indicated that until such procedures are explicitly laid out, Iran will disregard political and psychological pressures associated with the inspection demands. He described these as attempts to undermine Iran in the aftermath of the strikes.
IAEA’s Response and International Concerns
In late November, the IAEA urged Iran to ensure complete cooperation and to verify its nuclear materials in accordance with international safeguards. During a recent United Nations Security Council meeting, officials highlighted Iran’s responsibility to provide accurate information regarding the status of its nuclear program.
- International Officials’ Comments:
- Hedda Samson, EU Deputy Head, emphasized updated declarations on nuclear activities.
- Jay Dharmadhikari, France’s UN deputy, warned that Iran’s inaction poses a severe threat to global security.
Iran’s Commitment to a Peaceful Nuclear Program
In response to concerns regarding its ballistic missile program, Eslami reaffirmed that Iran’s nuclear efforts are peaceful. He noted that the Iranian government remains focused on enhancing its technological and scientific capabilities despite facing renewed UN sanctions banning arms sales and missile activities.
As tensions rise, it is crucial for the IAEA and Iran to engage in dialogue to clarify these complex issues surrounding nuclear site inspections and to address international security concerns effectively.
