Iran threatens to end cooperation with UN nuclear watchdog in case of any ‘hostile action’

“In the event of any hostile action against Iran – including the reinstatement of cancelled UN Security Council resolutions – Iran will consider these practical steps null and void," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told a joint press conference in Cairo on Tuesday with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

Britain, France, and Germany announced last month they had triggered the snapback mechanism under UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which automatically restores sanctions unless the Council decides otherwise within 30 days.

“The message is clear: Iran will never compromise on its sovereignty, rights, or security. At the same time, Iran is demonstrating restraint and responsibility by reaching an agreement with the Agency to allow continued cooperation,” Araghchi said.

On Tuesday, Iran and the IAEA reached an agreement in Cairo on resuming the agency's activities in Tehran with Egypt’s mediation.

The move came after Tehran suspended its ties with the UN nuclear watchdog following US and Israeli strikes on the country in June, accusing the agency of bias against Tehran.

Araghchi said the previous safeguards agreement between Tehran and the IAEA was designed for normal circumstances, which proved to be “inappropriate after the attacks by Israel and the US” on its nuclear facilities.

Iran was engaged in Oman-mediated nuclear negotiations with the US when Israel launched a surprise attack on Tehran on June 13, targeting military, nuclear, and civilian sites as well as senior military commanders and nuclear scientists.

Tehran launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes, while the US bombed three Iranian nuclear sites. The 12-day conflict came to a halt under a US-sponsored ceasefire that took effect on June 24.