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Iran may suspend cooperation with IAEA if threats escalate

Ali Shamkhani warned of possible deterrence measures and refusal of inspections in the context of growing tensions with the US.

Apr 10, 2025 13:24 323

Iran may suspend cooperation with IAEA if threats escalate  - 1

Iran may suspend its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) if external threats against the country continue. This was stated on Thursday by Ali Shamkhani, an advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a post on the social network X, quoted by "Reuters", reports News.bg.

The warning comes after new threats from US President Donald Trump of military action if Tehran does not agree to a new nuclear deal.

Shamkhani said that in the event of an escalation of tensions, Iran could take “deterrent measures“, including expelling IAEA inspectors and ceasing all cooperation with the agency. He added that Iran's agenda could also include transferring enriched nuclear materials to secure and undisclosed locations in the country.

The statement comes in the context of a new diplomatic attempt at negotiations. Iranian and US diplomats are expected to meet in Oman on Saturday to discuss Iran's nuclear program. Washington has insisted on direct negotiations, while Tehran has insisted that the talks will be indirect, mediated by the Omani foreign minister.

Donald Trump, who in his first term (2017-2021) unilaterally withdrew the United States from the 2015 nuclear deal and imposed new sanctions on Iran, said he would personally assess whether the talks lead to a result or a "collapse" that could put Iran in "great danger".

Iran has since significantly exceeded uranium enrichment limits set in the agreement, which was confirmed by the IAEA. Western powers suspect the country may be working covertly to acquire a nuclear weapons capability, while Tehran strongly denies this and says its nuclear program has only peaceful and energy purposes.