European Union Urges Iran to Reconsider Decision to Bar Inspectors

Major Focus

• The European Union calls upon Iran to reconsider its decision to prevent International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors from overseeing Tehran’s atomic activities, as it jeopardizes the Iran nuclear deal.
• The EU expresses deep concern regarding Iran’s withdrawal of official designation for several experienced IAEA inspectors responsible for monitoring and verifying Iran’s nuclear program.

Why This Matters

• The withdrawal of IAEA inspectors by Iran, in response to a call made by the United States, Britain, France, and Germany, undermines the transparency and effectiveness of the Iran nuclear deal.
• The European Union highlights the direct and severe impact of Iran’s decision on the IAEA’s ability to conduct verification activities, including monitoring the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

“The European Union is highly concerned by the decision of Iran to withdraw the official designation of several experienced IAEA inspectors to monitor and verify its nuclear program,” expressed Peter Stano, the spokesperson for EU foreign affairs.

He further added, “Particularly worrying is the direct and severe impact of this decision on the Agency’s ability to conduct its verification activities, which includes the monitoring of the JCPOA.”

What’s Next

• The European Union urges Iran to reconsider its decision promptly, without further delay, to ensure the IAEA can effectively fulfill its responsibilities in monitoring and verifying Iran’s nuclear activities.
• Efforts are expected to be made to address the Saudi uranium traces found at undeclared sites in Iran, as demanded by the United States, Britain, France, and Germany during last week’s IAEA meeting.

“The EU urges Iran to reconsider its decision without delay,” emphasized the EU statement.

The Iran nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has faced numerous challenges since its signing in 2015. The agreement aims to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for relief from economic sanctions.

Last week, the United States, Britain, France, and Germany called upon Iran to cooperate immediately with the IAEA in addressing concerns regarding uranium traces found at undeclared sites. In response, Iran decided to bar multiple IAEA inspectors, leading to significant concerns from the European Union regarding the future of the JCPOA.

Sources:

Algemeiner