Iranian officials condemned the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in forceful terms. They called upon the IAEA to publicly denounce the latest military attacks launched by Israel and the United States. The backlash exploded after the IAEA attributed Tehran with specifically failing to comply with its nuclear safeguards obligations. Thus, Iran shifted from being a pillar of support for the agency to a dramatic antagonistic position. Iranian legislators have gone even further, adopting the rare move of voting to halt cooperation with the IAEA. This decision showcases the increased public outcry and alarm sweeping the country.
Tensions began to boil over after Israel’s first air-strike on Iranian installations on June 13. Moments later, the U.S. launched the start of a bombing campaign to destroy Iran’s budding nuclear sites. In each case, these actions led to tremendous loss of life. As of October 17, at least 935 people have been reported dead, with 132 women and 38 children among the fatalities. Iranian officials and Iranian lawmakers have taken an increasingly hardline approach toward the IAEA. Others assert that the organization is caving to outside political pressure.
Iran’s Legislative Actions
The Iranian parliament’s decision to halt cooperation with the IAEA underscores the “concern and anger of the Iranian public opinion,” as stated by Esmaeil Baghaei, a member of the parliament. Lawmakers argue that the decision serves as a natural response to what they describe as the “unjustified, unconstructive, and destructive conduct” of IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi.
Pezeshkian, another parliament member, emphasized that the action taken reflects both national sentiment and the government’s commitment to defending Iranian interests. The Iranian government will continue to defend its sovereignty. Or that it is doing everything in its power to protect the health of its people.
In light of this situation, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed Grossi’s request to visit the bombed nuclear facilities, further illustrating Iran’s hardened stance against international scrutiny. Are you ready to put these skills into action?
International Reactions
Europeans vehemently condemned the IAEA’s recent resolution accusing Iran of non-compliance. France, Germany, and England collectively denounce all threats directed at Grossi. They’ve done this while continuing to consistently reiterate their steadfast support for the agency.
“France, Germany and the United Kingdom condemn threats against the director general of the IAEA Rafael Grossi and reiterate our full support to the agency,” – Jean-Noel Barrot, Johann Wadephul, and David Lammy
In a joint statement, these countries called on Iranian authorities to refrain from any actions leading to a cessation of cooperation with the IAEA. This major international effort is part of growing global anxiety over nuclear proliferation and regional stability amid increasing tensions.
Escalating Tensions and Humanitarian Concerns
The backdrop of these political maneuvers is impossible to ignore given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza since the renewed conflict erupted between Hamas and Israel. The high death toll—in the thousands—has shocked the world, eliciting fears about considering military options over diplomatic means.
For their part, Iranian media outlets have intensified their colorful rhetoric. Some articles have gone so far as to label Grossi an Israeli spy that should be executed. This narrative is one of many that has fostered a climate of distrust toward international organizations seen as sympathetic to the West.
