Iran Threatens to Cut Ties with IAEA If UN Sanctions Are Reinstated

Iran has issued a stern warning to European nations, stating that it will halt all cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) if the United Nations' previous sanctions are reimposed. The warning comes amid rising tensions over efforts by Western powers to revive punitive measures against Tehran.

On Friday, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the decision by the United Kingdom, France, and Germany to potentially trigger the “snapback mechanism” — a clause in the 2015 nuclear deal that would restore past UN sanctions on Iran. Araghchi called the move politically motivated and legally baseless, warning that it would cause “irreparable damage” to Europe’s credibility.

Araghchi emphasized that Iran would never compromise on its sovereignty, rights, or national security. He also stated that a new agreement reached with the IAEA earlier this month — brokered with the help of Egypt — would remain valid only if no hostile actions are taken against Iran.

He added that Iran has always acted with restraint and insists that its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes. However, he warned that if Europe pursues this course, it would have dire consequences for both regional and global security.

Meanwhile, China has opposed the European move. In a statement, Beijing said that resolving Iran’s nuclear issue is only possible through political and diplomatic means, and that activating the snapback mechanism would undermine trust rather than restore it.

Source: Anadolu Agency