New Delhi, Jun 25: Iran’s parliament on Wednesday voted to suspend cooperation with the UN’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), according to a report by state broadcaster IRIB, cited by CNN. The move comes amid heightened tensions following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities earlier this month.
The legislation passed by Iran’s Majles (parliament) will now require approval from the Supreme National Security Council, chaired by newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian. However, as CNN notes, such parliamentary votes, particularly on foreign policy matters, are largely symbolic unless endorsed by this more powerful body, which is closely aligned with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In a sign of escalating rhetoric, Iran’s parliamentary national security and foreign policy committee had earlier this week called for the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz in response to U.S. airstrikes. That decision, too, would ultimately lie with the Supreme National Security Council. CNN reported that the IAEA has repeatedly called for renewed access to Iran’s nuclear facilities, stressing its inspectors remained in the country throughout the 12-day conflict that began with Israeli strikes on June 13. In a statement released, the agency said it was ready to resume verification work “as soon as possible,” including monitoring over 400 kg of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, just below weapons-grade. IAEA is yet to comment on the development. The suspension, if ratified, would mark a major setback for diplomatic efforts to restore transparency over Iran’s nuclear programme, which Western governments fear could be rapidly weaponised.
