In response to recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear infrastructure, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a law on July 2, 2025, that suspends the country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The move effectively limits access for international inspectors and halts information sharing about Iran’s nuclear activities.
The bill, passed by Iran’s Parliament days earlier, was framed as a national security response to what Tehran views as direct violations of its sovereignty. Iran insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, despite persistent concerns from Western governments about potential weaponization.
The IAEA has expressed “grave concern” over the decision, warning that it hinders global non-proliferation efforts and obstructs verification processes. Inspectors currently in Iran will not be expelled immediately, but their access to key facilities will be severely restricted unless the law is repealed.
This development marks a new low point in Iran’s relationship with global nuclear oversight and could further destabilize the Middle East if diplomatic alternatives are not urgently pursued.
