The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) condemned Iran for its insufficient cooperation regarding its nuclear program, in a resolution passed Thursday. The resolution is supported by nineteen member states, including the US, the UK, France and Germany. However, China, Russia and Burkina Faso opposed the resolution, with 12 other countries abstaining.

This resolution marks the second censure of Iran in just five months and comes amid escalating tensions surrounding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. Critics fear that Iran may be pursuing a nuclear weapon, a claim the Islamic Republic vehemently denies. The IAEA’s resolution calls for Iran to provide credible explanations regarding uranium particles discovered at two undeclared sites and urges the country to fulfil its legal obligations under international agreements.

The backdrop to this resolution includes Iran’s significant reduction in cooperation with the IAEA since 2021, which has included deactivating surveillance equipment and limiting access to inspectors. Simultaneously, Iran has been increasing its stockpiles of enriched uranium, raising alarms about potential weapons development. The IAEA’s Director General Rafael Grossi recently indicated some progress during his visit to Tehran, where Iran agreed to limit its stock of near weapons-grade uranium.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the resolution, warning that it could complicate ongoing diplomatic negotiations. He emphasized that while Tehran remains willing to cooperate with the IAEA, it would respond proportionately to what it views as unjust actions by Western powers. As tensions continue to mount, the international community watches closely for Iran’s next moves and the implications for global security.

Relatedly in July, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei defended a 2020 law that mandates parliament to enhance the country’s nuclear capacities despite nuclear sanctions.