Iran's Supreme National Security Council announced on Monday that its September cooperation agreement with the UN nuclear watchdog is now void, following European powers' activation of sanctions-reinstating measures. Ali Larijani, secretary of the council, stated that the 'snapback' mechanism triggered by France, Britain, and Germany had invalidated the Cairo-brokered deal, leaving future IAEA engagement subject to Tehran's review.
Larijani emphasized during a press conference with Iraqi counterpart Qasim al-Araji that IAEA proposals for renewed cooperation must now undergo scrutiny by Iran's security council. The remarks come six months after Iran suspended collaboration with the agency, citing unmet demands for condemnation of alleged U.S. and Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities.
The escalation follows IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi's recent reports on Iran's 60% enriched uranium stockpile, which Larijani dismissed as inconsequential. Analysts suggest the move signals Tehran's hardening stance amid stalled nuclear negotiations and renewed pressure from Western powers.
