Why in News?
Iran has officially suspended its cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog (IAEA), following Israeli and US strikes on its nuclear sites. The move heightens concerns over nuclear proliferation and deepens the ongoing geopolitical conflict with the West.
Description:
Background of IAEA Cooperation:
- IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) monitors nuclear programs under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
- Iran had allowed inspections and surveillance of its nuclear facilities under the JCPOA (2015 nuclear deal).
- Cooperation strained over time due to sanctions and lack of progress in diplomatic talks.
Triggering Events:
- June 13: Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
- June 22: US airstrikes on three nuclear sites in Iran.
- Iran called these attacks a violation of sovereignty and accused IAEA of failing to ensure site security.
Parliament’s Legislative Action:
- Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee approved a bill to suspend IAEA cooperation.
- Bill passed in Parliament demands security guarantees for nuclear facilities.
- Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated Iran’s nuclear programme will now accelerate.
Restrictions on IAEA Oversight (If Enacted):
- IAEA inspectors barred Iranian facilities.
- Installation of surveillance equipment to be stopped.
- Routine reporting and inspections to be suspended.
- Would create an oversight vacuum over Iran’s nuclear activities.
Impact on Nuclear Monitoring Framework:
- Severe blow to the 2015 JCPOA framework.
- May lead to a nuclear proliferation crisis.
- Iran may pursue weapons-grade uranium enrichment without international monitoring.
Shifts in Iran’s Nuclear Policy:
- Iran denies intent to build nuclear weapons, insists its programme is peaceful.
- Parliament’s rhetoric turned increasingly defiant.
- Cooperation with IAEA is now made conditional and political.
Regional & Global Reactions:
- IAEA credibility questioned amid weakening nuclear oversight.
- France & Germany called for an emergency UN Security Council meeting.
- Russia & China condemned Western military strikes and urged de-escalation.
- Gulf States fear regional instability and possible nuclear arms race.
Future Implications:
- A ceasefire is still in effect, but the next few days are crucial.
- If law is enforced, IAEA inspectors may be expelled rapidly.
- Risk of a complete blackout of Iran’s nuclear programme increases.
- May fuel global fears of nuclear weaponization and destabilise West Asia.
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