Tehran cites security concerns, will assess nuclear site access case-by-case
By AFP

Iran announced Saturday that its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will continue but “take on a new form,” signaling a more cautious and controlled approach in the wake of recent military tensions and stalled nuclear negotiations.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that Iran had not entirely halted its engagement with the UN nuclear watchdog, despite suspending formal cooperation earlier this month. However, he stated that future requests to inspect Iranian nuclear facilities will now be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the country’s Supreme National Security Council, with priority given to safety and national security concerns.

This policy shift comes in the aftermath of a 12-day conflict with Israel last month, during which Israeli airstrikes targeted both military and nuclear sites across Iran. The attacks disrupted a planned meeting between Tehran and Washington that was intended to revive nuclear talks.

In his remarks, Araghchi blamed the IAEA, at least in part, for the June strikes, which also involved U.S. participation. On June 22, American forces reportedly struck key Iranian nuclear sites at Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz. Iran continues to deny any intention to develop nuclear weapons, asserting that its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes.

Talks Conditional, Focused Solely on Nuclear Issues

While reaffirming Iran’s interest in a diplomatic resolution, Araghchi said Tehran is currently evaluating the timing, location, format, and conditions of any potential new talks. He emphasized that discussions would be limited strictly to Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions, excluding any debate on Iran’s military posture.

“If negotiations are to occur, they will address only the nuclear issue and the confidence-building required for lifting sanctions,” Araghchi told diplomats in Tehran. “No other matters are up for negotiation.”

He also warned that any move to reimpose United Nations sanctions—particularly under the snapback provision of the 2015 nuclear agreement—would effectively exclude Europe from further participation in the Iranian nuclear dialogue.

“Such actions would mean the end of Europe’s role in the nuclear dossier,” he added.

Right to Enrichment a Red Line

Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s insistence on its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), a key sticking point in any future agreement.

“I must stress that any negotiated settlement must uphold the Iranian people’s right to enrich uranium,” he said. “We will not accept any agreement that does not include this provision.”

Russia Voices Support

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed continued backing for Iran at the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro. According to state media outlet TASS, Lavrov said Russia remains a “committed ally” and is prepared to assist Iran with uranium processing and related technologies.

As diplomatic efforts stall and regional tensions grow, Iran’s recalibrated stance on nuclear inspections highlights the widening rift between Tehran and international oversight bodies—and the growing geopolitical stakes surrounding its nuclear ambitions.