UN watchdog demands Iran provide information on nuclear stockpile

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) adopted a resolution on June 5, 2024, demanding Iran provide detailed information regarding its uranium enrichment activities and the discovery of uranium particles at undeclared sites. The resolution, supported by the United States, was passed by the IAEA's Board of Governors with 20 votes in favor, two against (Russia and China), and 12 abstentions. Iran's UN envoy, Amir Saeid Jalali, condemned the resolution, calling it "politically motivated" and a "misuse of the agency's authority." He warned that such actions could "seriously damage the ongoing cooperation" between Iran and the IAEA and potentially "complicate the ongoing ceasefire talks" in the region. The IAEA's Director General, Rafael Grossi, had previously reported in May 2024 that Iran had significantly increased its uranium enrichment, reaching purity levels closer to weapons-grade. The agency also noted that Iran had failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the presence of uranium particles at three undeclared locations, which has been a point of contention since 2022. The resolution urges Iran to cooperate fully and promptly with the IAEA, including providing access to relevant information and sites, to resolve outstanding issues concerning its nuclear program. The IAEA's findings are crucial for international efforts to monitor and verify Iran's nuclear activities.