Iran Unveils New Form of UN Nuclear Watchdog Cooperation
Iran Signals a Shift in its IAEA Engagement
Background
Iran’s 12‑day conflict with Israel last month, incited by an Israeli bombing campaign that targeted military and nuclear sites along with residential areas, deeply unsettled its already fragile rapport with the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In early July, Tehran formally terminated its cooperation with the IAEA, prompting a suspension of inspection activities.
Foreign Minister’s Statement
- Abbas Araghchi asserted that Iran’s cooperation with the IAEA “has not stopped, but will take on a new form.”
- He emphasized that future IAEA requests to monitor nuclear sites will be reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis, taking into account safety and security considerations, and will be managed by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
Negotiation Conditions
- Araghchi highlighted that any forthcoming meeting will focus exclusively on Iran’s nuclear activities, not its military capabilities.
- He stated that negotiations will only address nuclear confidence in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.
- He warned that the reimposition of UN sanctions could eliminate Europe’s role in the process.
Enrichment Rights
- Araghchi stressed that any new nuclear agreement must uphold Iran’s right under the Non‑Proliferation Treaty to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes.
- He reaffirmed that Iran will not agree to any negotiated solution that excludes enrichment.
International Reactions
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, speaking at the BRICS summit in Rio, declared Moscow’s commitment to support Iran’s nuclear programme. Lavrov cited Russia’s technological solutions for uranium depletion and expressed readiness to collaborate with Iran in this field.
Conclusion
Iran’s new stance indicates a desire for a diplomatic resolution to address concerns over its nuclear programme while preserving its nuclear enrichment rights. The shift in cooperation with the IAEA marks a significant development in the unfolding nuclear negotiations.
