IRAN: Iran has issued a stark warning that it will terminate a crucial agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) if Western powers proceed with reimposing United Nations sanctions. The announcement was made by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, underscoring rising tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program and its compliance with international oversight.
This threat targets a key inspection and monitoring arrangement that allows the IAEA to verify Iran’s nuclear activities. Scrapping it would limit transparency and significantly reduce the agency’s ability to track Iran’s enrichment and stockpile levels, potentially escalating concerns about proliferation risks.
The warning comes amid growing friction between Iran and Western nations over the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). While Iran insists it has abided by the agreement, Western powers argue that its recent actions violate its commitments, prompting talk of restoring sanctions that were previously lifted.
Araqchi’s statement signals Tehran’s frustration with what it views as unfair pressure, and it reflects a broader strategy to leverage nuclear cooperation in negotiations. By threatening to curtail IAEA access, Iran aims to increase the cost of reimposing sanctions for the West.
If carried out, this move would deepen the standoff and complicate diplomatic efforts to revive or renegotiate the nuclear deal. It also risks further isolating Iran internationally while heightening regional security concerns, particularly among neighboring states wary of its nuclear ambitions.
