TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced that the country will not completely cut cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), despite recently passed legislation curbing the agency’s access to nuclear facilities. Araqchi emphasized that while inspections will now require approval from the Supreme National Security Council, Tehran still considers dialogue with the UN body necessary.
The clarification follows weeks of heightened tensions after U.S. and Israeli strikes targeted Iranian nuclear infrastructure, leading Tehran to restrict IAEA monitoring activities. Authorities in Iran accused the agency of indirectly enabling such attacks through its reporting on nuclear sites.
Araqchi confirmed that limited consultations with the IAEA will continue, describing them as “essential” for managing disputes and avoiding complete isolation. He added that future engagement would depend on assurances that Iran’s national security is not compromised.
Meanwhile, European powers, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, have cautioned Tehran that failure to restore cooperation with the agency could lead to renewed international sanctions, further straining Iran’s economic and diplomatic standing.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.