Iran Suspends Cooperation with IAEA Amid Renewed Sanctions Threat
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council announced on September 20, 2025, that it will suspend its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in response to the imminent re-establishment of UN sanctions driven by France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, reports 24brussels.
The Council, led by President Masud Pezeshkian, condemned the actions of the three European nations, labeling them as “reckless.” These countries invoked the mechanism for the automatic restoration of international sanctions at the end of August, citing Iran’s “clear and deliberate non-compliance” with its nuclear commitments.
In a statement reported by the IRNA agency, the Iranian security body indicated that these measures effectively suspend cooperation with the IAEA, despite attempts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to foster constructive dialogue and propose solutions.
This announcement follows a failed attempt by the UN Security Council to adopt a draft resolution that aimed to permanently lift sanctions imposed on Iran prior to the 2015 nuclear deal.
On September 9, Iran had reached an agreement to restore cooperation with the IAEA, which included a commitment to report on the status of nuclear facilities that were attacked in June by Israel and the United States. However, the E3 deemed this agreement insufficient. Tehran had previously suspended its IAEA cooperation following a 12-day conflict with Israel but indicated willingness to re-engage, provided that sanctions were not reinstated.
The E3 had proposed extending the timeline for the reimposition of punitive measures, contingent on Iran resuming cooperation with the IAEA, disclosing the status of 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, and returning to negotiations with the United States.
The ongoing dispute highlights escalating tensions in the region and the complex dynamics surrounding nuclear policy and international diplomacy.
Source: EFE
