Iranian Parliament Votes To Suspend Cooperation With UN Nuclear Watchdog
Iran’s parliament has passed legislation to suspend the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), according to lawmaker Alireza Salimi.
The bill, which was approved with 221 votes in favour, one abstention and no opposition, mandates a halt to Iran’s collaboration with the UN nuclear watchdog. It bars IAEA inspectors from entering Iran unless the security of the country’s nuclear facilities and peaceful nuclear activities is guaranteed, a condition subject to the approval of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
Speaking on Tuesday, Salimi said the new legislation covers both safeguards and non-safeguards agreements and includes penalties for individuals who allow IAEA inspectors access to Iranian sites without authorisation.
The move comes amid growing international concern over Iran’s nuclear activities. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has repeatedly urged Tehran to resume nuclear verification and monitoring efforts, warning that lack of access hampers the agency’s ability to assess Iran’s compliance with non-proliferation commitments.
Following the vote, Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the Islamic Republic would now accelerate its nuclear programme.
