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UK, France, Germany Slam Iran Threats to IAEA Chief
In a strong rebuke to Iran’s hardline rhetoric, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany have jointly condemned threats made against Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), after an Iranian newspaper called for his execution. The three countries reaffirmed their full support for Grossi and the IAEA’s critical mission in monitoring nuclear compliance.
IAEA Chief Targeted by Iranian Newspaper
The controversy erupted after Kayhan, a hardline Iranian newspaper known to reflect views close to the country’s Supreme Leader, published an editorial demanding that Grossi be tried and executed if he set foot in Iran. The newspaper accused him of collaborating with Israel’s Mossad and acting against Iran’s sovereignty by facilitating intelligence that allegedly enabled military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
While Iranian authorities have distanced themselves from the publication’s remarks, the editorial has sparked outrage among European powers. Iran’s envoy to the United Nations later claimed that the safety of IAEA inspectors in Iran remains intact, and that Tehran respects its international obligations.
European Powers Condemn the Threats
In a coordinated statement, the UK, France, and Germany strongly condemned the remarks, stating that they stood by the IAEA and its leadership. The three nations reiterated the need for Iran to ensure the safety of international inspectors and to adhere to its legal responsibilities under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
They warned that threats against UN officials not only endanger lives but also undermine global nuclear oversight mechanisms.
Rising Tensions Over Nuclear Oversight
Tensions between Iran and the IAEA have escalated in recent weeks following Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on suspected Iranian nuclear sites. In response, Iran’s parliament passed a bill suspending some forms of cooperation with the IAEA, including site inspections. Grossi had earlier demanded renewed access to the facilities, but Iranian officials have resisted, citing security concerns.
The European bloc is now pressing Tehran to resume full cooperation with the IAEA to prevent further deterioration of diplomatic engagement. Failure to comply, they warn, could lead to increased isolation and possible consequences within international forums.
