Iran has confirmed that it will allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to increase the number of inspections into its nuclear program in Tehran. According to an official statement reported by state media IRNA, Mohammad Eslami, Iran's nuclear chief, emphasized that the enhancement in nuclear activities naturally necessitates a corresponding increase in monitoring levels.
This decision follows a recent IAEA report indicating Iran's agreement to heighten the frequency and intensity of safeguards at the Fordo enrichment plant, located south of Tehran. Last week, the UN nuclear watchdog highlighted that Iran had upgraded Fordo, potentially increasing uranium enrichment rates up to 60 percent—a significant step towards the 90 percent required for weaponization.
Despite these developments, Iran maintains that its nuclear pursuit is exclusively for peaceful energy purposes, firmly rejecting claims of weapon development. Eslami reiterated Iran's commitment to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), ensuring transparency and cooperation with the IAEA framework.
However, tensions with Western nations have escalated, particularly since the United States' withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement under former President Donald Trump. Recent actions, including Iran's deployment of new centrifuges and the European Union's condemnation, have raised concerns. Britain, France, and Germany have urged Tehran to reverse its nuclear expansion, signaling a potential restoration of UN sanctions to curb Iran's nuclear advancements.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community remains vigilant, balancing Iran's nuclear rights under the NPT with global security interests.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
