Iran Says Nuclear Cooperation No Longer Relevant
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, declared that cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog (IAEA) is now “no longer relevant,” following the reinstatement of international sanctions under the “snapback” mechanism. He specifically stated that the Cairo Agreement, signed last month with the IAEA, is invalidated in Iran’s view.
Breakdown of the Statement
Araghchi addressed foreign diplomats in Tehran, asserting that Europe’s move to trigger the snapback sanctions has undermined the basis for continued cooperation. He added that Iran’s future decisions on how—or whether—to cooperate will be announced later.
Context and Reactions
The snapback sanctions were reimposed by Britain, Germany, and France under U.N. Security Council rules associated with the 2015 nuclear agreement. Iran views those sanctions as unjustified and claims they strip legitimacy from oversight mechanisms.
This development comes amid escalating tensions over Iran’s nuclear program. Earlier, Iran’s parliament had approved a bill to suspend cooperation with the IAEA—including inspections and reporting—pending final ratification.
International observers warn that Tehran’s rejection of cooperation could further isolate it diplomatically and complicate efforts to monitor its nuclear activities. The IAEA has previously cited concerns over Iran’s lack of transparency and its enrichment of uranium beyond agreed limits.
