AdSense Advertisement

Iranian Parliament Approves Bill to Suspend Cooperation with IAEA Amid Escalating Tensions

By The South Asia Times

Tehran,— Iran’s parliament has approved a bill mandating the suspension of the country's cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in response to recent airstrikes on its nuclear facilities reportedly carried out by the United States and Israel.

The legislation, passed by a majority vote in the Majlis (parliament), reflects growing anger within Iran’s political establishment over what officials describe as "unjustified and illegal aggression" targeting its peaceful nuclear infrastructure. Lawmakers argued that Iran must take a firm stand against violations of its sovereignty and the international community's failure to prevent such attacks.

"The approval of this bill sends a clear message to those who think they can threaten Iran without consequence," said a senior lawmaker during the parliamentary session. "Our cooperation with the IAEA has always been voluntary and based on mutual respect — now that respect has been broken."

The bill authorizes the Iranian government to suspend voluntary transparency measures and limit inspections under the Additional Protocol, effectively reducing the IAEA's oversight of Iran’s nuclear activities.

The move comes just days after reported airstrikes targeted Iran's nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, prompting global concern over a potential escalation in the region. While the U.S. claims the strikes were necessary for regional security, Iran has called them a flagrant breach of international law.

The IAEA has not yet officially responded to the Iranian parliament’s decision, but observers warn that such a move could further destabilize the already fragile diplomatic efforts aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear agreement.

International analysts say the development marks a serious setback to non-proliferation efforts and raises the stakes for regional security as Iran insists its nuclear program remains peaceful.

The bill still requires formal approval from Iran’s Guardian Council to become law.