In a bold escalation of nuclear tensions, Iran has suspended all cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), following recent U.S. airstrikes on its nuclear facilities.
The decision, confirmed by Iranian state media on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, was reportedly ordered by newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian, and is based on a law previously approved by Iran’s parliament and constitutional council.
The law permits the country to limit international oversight of its nuclear program if foreign powers violate its sovereignty or nuclear rights.
The suspension follows a wave of targeted airstrikes by the U.S. military earlier this month, which Washington claimed were aimed at curbing Iran’s suspected nuclear weapons development.
The attacks struck several key nuclear infrastructure sites, prompting swift condemnation from Tehran.
“The government of Iran will no longer allow intrusive monitoring or data access by the IAEA,” Iranian state television announced, quoting officials close to the president.
What It Means for the IAEA
At the time of reporting, the IAEA had not issued an official response.
However, Director General Rafael Grossi was seen arriving at the agency’s headquarters in Vienna for an emergency meeting of its Board of Governors.
Experts warn the move may cripple the agency’s ability to monitor uranium enrichment and other sensitive nuclear activities in Iran a country already accused of violating aspects of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which it claims was undermined by U.S. withdrawal in 2018.
Global Concerns Mount
International observers fear the decision could lead to a full-blown nuclear crisis in the Middle East.
Several European governments have called for restraint, urging Iran to reconsider the suspension to avoid further destabilization of the region.
The Geneva-based agency has historically played a crucial role in verifying the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.
Without its presence, transparency is significantly reduced, fueling fears of unchecked uranium enrichment.