Iran declares nuclear cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency is now irrelevant.

Iran’s foreign minister has stated that cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has lost its relevance following the reinstatement of international sanctions by Western countries. This statement comes amidst rising tensions regarding Iran’s nuclear program and the geopolitical dynamics involving Europe and the United States.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi addressed the issue on Sunday, declaring that the Cairo agreement, a framework established for enhanced inspections and monitoring, is now inconsequential for Iran’s collaboration with the IAEA. This agreement, which aimed to restore oversight after Iran suspended cooperation in response to attacks on its nuclear facilities, has recently been overshadowed by the reimplementation of sanctions.

The reinstatement of these sanctions was triggered by Britain, France, and Germany—parties to the landmark 2015 nuclear agreement—who accused Iran of deviating from its commitments. Tehran has consistently rejected these claims, arguing that such accusations undermine the credibility of the European nations involved.

Araghchi emphasized that the European trio underestimated the repercussions of their actions, suggesting that they have significantly diminished their influence and nearly eradicated any justification for further negotiations with Iran. He pointed out that their role in future discussions regarding Iran’s nuclear aspirations will be greatly limited.

In a broader context, Iranian officials expressed concerns about perceived double standards from the IAEA, particularly with its failure to condemn Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites—an issue the Iranian government feels is a violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Iran has faced accusations from Western nations, particularly the US and Israel, about pursuing nuclear weapons, allegations that Tehran vehemently denies, insisting that its nuclear program serves purely civilian purposes and is compliant with the NPT.

Despite calls from some segments within Iran to reconsider their commitment to the NPT, President Masoud Pezeshkian has reassured that the country will adhere to its treaty obligations. As the diplomatic landscape continues to evolve, Araghchi noted that while Iran is reevaluating its relationship with the agency, there remains potential for diplomatic engagements.

Negotiations aimed at reviving a broader nuclear agreement with the United States experienced a setback following military actions in June against Iranian nuclear and military sites. Iran’s leadership is now demanding guarantees and recognition of its rights before any talks can be resumed.

In an international climate of heightened scrutiny and complex geopolitics, Iran’s position on its nuclear program continues to attract significant attention, with the nation advocating for its sovereign rights while striving for a peaceful resolution through diplomacy.

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