[FILE] The head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, Mohamed Eslami, in a file photo. EFE/EPA/HEINZ-PETER BADER
Tehran, Nov 22 (EFE).- Iran Friday vowed to install advanced centrifuges for uranium enrichment in a retaliatory move against a resolution by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) over Tehran’s alleged lack of cooperation.
The resolution, presented by Germany, France, and the United Kingdom with US backing, condemns Iran’s insufficient cooperation and calls for a “comprehensive report” on its nuclear activities.
In response, the Iranian Foreign Ministry and its nuclear agency issued a joint statement, stating that Atomic Energy Organization director Mohamed Eslami issued directives to begin activating various new and advanced centrifuges for uranium enrichment.
Tehran described the IAEA resolution as a “destructive,” “belligerent, and unjustified” measure aimed at “achieving political and illegitimate objectives.”
“It exposes its use of the nuclear issue as a pretext to promote illegitimate objectives.”
Iran expressed regret that the “constructive climate” fostered during IAEA Director Rafael Grossi’s recent visit to Iran was undermined.
Iranian officials insisted that President Masud Pezeshkian’s administration remains committed to increasing cooperation with the IAEA.
Despite the resolution, Iran stated that it would continue its “technical cooperation” with the agency.
Background on the Resolution The resolution was approved by the IAEA Board, the agency’s executive body, with 19 votes in favor, 12 abstentions, and three votes against. China, Russia, and Burkina Faso opposed the measure, diplomatic sources in Vienna told EFE.
The resolution aims to pressure Tehran into fulfilling its legal obligations to ensure atomic materials are not used for military purposes. This follows the collapse of the 2015 nuclear agreement, which limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. The US withdrew from the deal under President Donald Trump (2017–2021), reimposing economic sanctions in 2018.
In response, Iran began breaching its commitments, enriching uranium far beyond permissible levels, disconnecting surveillance cameras, and barring UN inspectors.
Concerns Over Uranium Enrichment The IAEA said on Tuesday that Iran had slightly slowed its production of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, which is near the 90 percent required for military use. However, Iran has already stockpiled 182.3 kilograms of enriched uranium, raising alarms.
The Vienna-based nuclear watchdog indicated in a confidential report that while Iran may be preparing to halt enrichment at the 60 percent level, the situation remains concerning, as it is the “only non-nuclear-weapon state doing so.” EFE
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