Iran Proposes Uranium Cap Amid Continued Western Pressure at IAEA
Iran has proposed to limit its uranium stockpile to avoid UN censure, contingent on Western nations halting their resolution efforts. The skepticism from Western powers highlights concerns over Iran’s enrichment activities, which have escalated following the JCPOA’s collapse. Continued negotiations seem precarious with the upcoming US presidential transition influencing potential diplomatic avenues.
In a recent development at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), diplomats revealed that Iran has proposed to limit its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity, just short of the weapons-grade threshold. This proposal is contingent on Western powers halting their efforts to pass a resolution against Iran during forthcoming board meetings. Although the IAEA confirmed that Iran has initiated measures to prevent further enrichment, Western diplomats remain skeptical, viewing this as a last-minute attempt to evade criticism. Furthermore, Iran’s commitment to allow additional inspectors has been questioned, as they cannot be the same officials previously barred by Tehran. As the board prepares to vote on a resolution condemning Iran for its insufficient cooperation, the pressure mounts for a return to negotiations regarding its nuclear activities. The impending leadership change in the USA adds further complexity to the negotiations, leaving the future of international diplomatic efforts uncertain.
The backdrop to these discussions involves Iran’s nuclear program, which has drawn significant scrutiny and concern from Western powers since the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. The agreement aimed to restrict Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for lifting international sanctions. However, since the US exit, Iran has gradually resumed its enrichment activities, leading to heightened tensions. Recent IAEA assessments indicate that Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% has increased, necessitating urgent discussions among member states regarding compliance and oversight. The resolution to be presented seeks to address these concerns directly while urging Iran to curtail its nuclear advancements and return to diplomatic negotiations.
In summary, Iran’s recent offer to cap uranium enrichment at 60% is seen as a strategic move in response to impending Western actions at the IAEA. While the proposal aims to create a favorable atmosphere for dialogues, it has been met with skepticism from Western diplomats who view it as a tactic to evade accountability. With global scrutiny intensifying and the future of negotiations in question, the upcoming resolution may serve as a critical turning point in addressing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and restoring trust among international stakeholders.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
