Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday signed legislation to suspend access for inspectors into the country until the “security” of its nuclear facilities is guaranteed.
The move could further limit inspectors’ ability to monitor Iran’s nuclear program that had been enriching uranium to near weapons-grade levels.
The suspension comes weeks after .
What do we know about the suspension?
According to Iranian state television, the suspension “will remain in effect until certain conditions are met, including the guaranteed security of nuclear facilities and scientists.”
Further details on the decision are limited and it is not yet clear how will implement it.
The IAEA has already been refused access to the damaged nuclear facilities that Israel and the US bombed last month.
On Sunday, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, said IAEA inspectors’ work had been suspended but denied any threats against them.
Stronger reaction was feared
Experts had feared that Iran’s decision could have been more severe. They were worried that Iran would end, rather than suspend, its cooperation with IAEA.
There were also concerns that Iran would abandon the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. Under the deal, and allow the IAEA to carry put inspections.
Iran has previously used restrictions on IAEA inspections as a pressure tactic. However, Iran has signaled that there is no immediate plan to restart .
“I don’t think negotiations will restart as quickly as that,” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. However, he added: “The doors of diplomacy will never slam shut.”
Israel condemns decision
Iran’s move to suspend IAEA cooperation drew condemnation from Foreign Minister Gideon Saar.
He appealed to European nations that are part of Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal to implement its so-called snapback clause. That would reinstate all UN sanctions on Iran, which were originally lifted by Tehran’s nuclear deal.
Israel is widely believed to be the only country with nuclear arms in the Middle East. The IAEA does not have access to its facilities.
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