Iran Warns of Nuclear Escalation Following UN Watchdog’s Condemnation
Iran has issued a stern warning regarding its nuclear program, suggesting a potential escalation in response to the UN nuclear watchdog’s recent assessment. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board has formally censured Iran for failing to adequately cooperate with investigations into undeclared nuclear activities.
In a statement released on Thursday, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization spokesperson, Behrouz Kamalvandi, stated that the country would implement countermeasures. These actions, he indicated, would be within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and would serve as a response to the politically motivated resolution passed by the IAEA board.
The IAEA’s resolution, adopted on Wednesday, criticized Iran for its insufficient cooperation with the agency’s probe into uranium traces found at undeclared sites. This censure marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between Iran and international nuclear watchdogs, raising concerns about the future of the Iran nuclear deal.
Kamalvandi accused certain IAEA member states of exploiting the agency for their political agendas. He argued that these nations, which he did not name, are attempting to exert undue pressure on Iran through the IAEA platform. The Iranian spokesperson emphasized that such actions undermine the IAEA’s credibility and impartiality.
The resolution was approved by a majority of the IAEA’s 35-nation board, with 20 countries voting in favor, two against (Russia and China), and 12 abstaining. The move reflects growing international frustration with Iran’s lack of transparency regarding its nuclear activities. Western powers, in particular, have been vocal in their criticism of Iran’s non-compliance with IAEA requests.
In response to the resolution, Iran has reportedly begun taking steps to increase its uranium enrichment capacity. While details of these measures remain unclear, analysts suggest that they could involve the installation of advanced centrifuges or the further enrichment of uranium to higher levels. Such actions would further strain relations with the international community and increase concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The situation remains tense, with both sides seemingly entrenched in their positions. The IAEA insists on full cooperation from Iran in its investigations, while Iran accuses the agency of political bias and threatens to escalate its nuclear activities. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a diplomatic solution can be found to prevent further escalation and safeguard the future of the Iran nuclear deal.
