US Blasts Iran, Iran Ends Cooperation with the IAEA
Iran has officially halted its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), following the signing of a controversial law by President Masoud Pezeshkian. This new law was approved by Iran’s parliament last week and is now in effect. It removes the ability of IAEA inspectors to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities—raising international alarm.
This decision means that the IAEA will no longer be allowed to access Iran’s nuclear sites without direct approval from the country’s Supreme National Security Council. Iran’s state media confirmed that this law has now become official. The move comes at a sensitive time, as global powers continue to worry about Iran’s growing nuclear capabilities.
US Calls the Move ‘Unacceptable’
The United States reacted strongly to Iran’s decision. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said it is “unacceptable” that Iran has chosen to suspend cooperation at a time when it had a chance to choose a path of peace and prosperity. She demanded that Iran resume full cooperation with the IAEA immediately and without delay.
Bruce warned that before the recent US military operation, Iran had already been enriching uranium at high levels with no clear peaceful purpose. She noted that Iran remains the only country enriching uranium up to 60% without having nuclear weapons—something that greatly concerns world powers.
Violation of Global Agreements
Bruce reminded Iran of its obligation to follow the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). This treaty requires countries to open up their nuclear activities to international monitoring. Iran is now seen as violating this agreement by hiding parts of its nuclear program and not allowing inspectors to do their jobs.
She also highlighted that Iran must provide full details to the IAEA about its nuclear work, especially regarding undeclared materials. The suspension of inspections could make it easier for Iran to advance its program without detection—raising fears of nuclear weapon development in secret.
Diplomatic Talks Off the Table
Currently, there are no diplomatic talks scheduled between the United States and Iran regarding the nuclear issue. Iran has rejected earlier offers from the Trump administration to restart negotiations. This decision to stop cooperating with the IAEA only widens the gap between the two countries.
Iran has also accused the IAEA of being unfair and siding with Western nations. Iranian officials claim that the agency’s reports have been used to justify Israeli airstrikes. These tensions have made future cooperation even less likely in the near term.
Western Concerns Continue to Grow
Western countries, especially those in the European Union, are closely watching the situation. Many fear that Iran could now freely enrich uranium to weapons-grade levels without oversight. This could tip the balance of power in the Middle East and lead to further instability.
With Iran’s recent moves, the chances of returning to the 2015 nuclear deal—or any new agreement—appear slim. The international community is calling for transparency, but Iran remains firm in its decision to limit outside access to its nuclear facilities.
Iran’s Defense of the New Law
Iranian officials defend the new law as a necessary response to what they describe as ongoing Western hostility. They argue that the IAEA has not treated Iran fairly and that the monitoring efforts have done little to stop military threats from Israel and the US.
The law now requires that any future IAEA inspections be approved by Iran’s top security council. This gives Tehran full control over who monitors their program and when. Critics argue that this undermines the IAEA’s ability to ensure Iran is not building nuclear weapons.
What the IAEA Says
The IAEA itself responded cautiously to Iran’s move. In a statement, the agency said it was waiting for official information from Tehran. The IAEA has not confirmed how the new law will impact its inspections or if Iran plans to offer any limited access.
The lack of clarity has left many questions unanswered. If Iran no longer allows independent inspections, it will be difficult for the international community to trust any of its claims about peaceful nuclear use. Trust is already low, and this law may worsen that.
Security Risks on the Rise
This decision could have serious global consequences. If Iran continues enriching uranium without oversight, other countries in the region might feel pressured to start their own nuclear programs. This could trigger an arms race in the already tense Middle East.
Furthermore, Israel has repeatedly said it will not allow Iran to become a nuclear power. With cooperation now suspended, the risk of military conflict may grow. Regional and global powers are watching closely to see what steps Iran takes next.
Legal and Political Reactions
Legal experts say that the law goes against international standards. They argue that Iran has an ongoing responsibility to allow monitoring under the NPT treaty. Ignoring these rules may lead to further sanctions or diplomatic isolation.
Politically, the law shows a more aggressive stance by President Pezeshkian. It may also be part of a broader strategy to resist Western pressure and show strength at home. However, critics say this risks further damaging Iran’s economy and global image.
What Happens Next?
With no new talks on the horizon and rising mistrust, the future of Iran’s nuclear program is uncertain. Will Iran resume cooperation, or will the situation escalate further? Can the IAEA find a way to restore its role? Will the US and allies find diplomatic solutions—or be forced to respond through sanctions or force?
These are the key questions that global leaders must now face. As tensions rise, the world waits for Iran’s next move.
