Iran Considers Suspending Cooperation with IAEA Over Trust Issues

Iran’s parliament is weighing a bill that could suspend the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), according to MP Ruhollah Motefakerzadeh, a member of the parliament’s presidium. The proposal reflects growing tensions between Tehran and the UN nuclear watchdog amid ongoing geopolitical strain.

Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf confirmed the initiative on Monday, stating that lawmakers are working to pass legislation that halts collaboration with the IAEA unless Iran receives “objective guarantees” of the agency’s professionalism. His remarks were reported by Iranian state media.

Qalibaf emphasized that Iran is not pursuing nuclear weapons, reiterating that the country’s nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes. He also criticized the IAEA, claiming the agency has failed to uphold its obligations and has been weaponized politically.

“The world clearly saw that the Atomic Energy Agency has not fulfilled any of its obligations and has become a political tool,” Qalibaf said.

This development comes amid heightened global scrutiny following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran’s nuclear facilities. Iran’s potential withdrawal from cooperation with the IAEA could further escalate regional tensions and complicate diplomatic efforts surrounding Tehran’s nuclear program.

The IAEA has not yet responded to the statements from Iranian officials. The agency has played a critical role in monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities under the framework of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), from which the U.S. withdrew in 2018.

If passed, the bill would mark a significant policy shift, further straining Iran’s relationship with the international community and increasing uncertainty around its nuclear ambitions.