The United Nations nuclear watchdog has officially declared Iran to be in violation of its nuclear obligations, a move that triggered an immediate and defiant response from Tehran. Following a vote by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board of governors, Iran announced it will construct a new uranium enrichment facility “in a secure location,” citing what it called a “political resolution.”
This marks the first time in 20 years that the IAEA board has formally found Iran to be non-compliant. The resolution, backed by 19 member nations including the U.S., France, Germany, and the U.K., calls on Iran to provide long-overdue explanations regarding undeclared nuclear material found at multiple sites. Russia, China, and Burkina Faso voted against the resolution, while 11 countries abstained.
In a joint statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry and the Atomic Energy Organization said the country had “no choice but to respond” and confirmed plans to expand its nuclear capabilities. Alongside the announcement of a new facility, Iran also revealed it would replace its older centrifuges at the Fordo site with advanced IR-6 models, which can enrich uranium more efficiently.
Western intelligence agencies have long suspected Iran of pursuing a covert nuclear weapons program until 2003. Under the Non-Proliferation Treaty, Iran is legally obligated to declare all nuclear material and cooperate fully with IAEA inspectors. The resolution emphasizes that Iran’s continued refusal to do so “constitutes non-compliance.”
The board also expressed concern that the IAEA is unable to confirm whether Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful, warning that the matter could be escalated to the United Nations Security Council if unresolved.
Amid rising regional tensions, the U.S. State Department announced it would reduce non-essential personnel in the Middle East. President Donald Trump has reaffirmed that military action, including potential airstrikes by the U.S. or Israel, remains an option if diplomatic efforts fail.
Still, talks continue. A sixth round of U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations is scheduled to be held in Oman this Sunday. The IAEA resolution voices support for a diplomatic solution, urging all parties to engage constructively.
Time is running short: the power of parties to the 2015 nuclear deal to trigger the return of UN sanctions expires in October. Western nations have warned that if Iran fails to offer credible answers soon, they may be forced to act.
An IAEA report circulated last week noted Iran’s “less than satisfactory” cooperation, particularly regarding uranium traces at undeclared sites. With trust eroding and deadlines approaching, the international community braces for a pivotal summer in the standoff over Iran’s nuclear program.
Source: AP
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
