In March 2025, the Quad addressed the IAEA regarding Iran’s non-compliance with its NPT Safeguards Agreement. The Quad lamented Iran’s refusal to clarify issues related to its nuclear program, stressing the need for cooperation. They outlined the ongoing concerns over undeclared activities and called for prompt compliance to ensure the integrity of the non-proliferation regime.
In March 2025, the UK Ambassador Corinne Kitsell delivered a statement on behalf of France, Germany, the UK, and the United States, collectively known as the Quad, during an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board meeting. The statement commended the Agency for its ongoing efforts to clarify unresolved issues concerning Iran’s Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Safeguards Agreement obligations. The Quad expressed gratitude for the Director General’s report, emphasizing its importance in understanding the nature of Iran’s nuclear program.
The Quad voiced deep regret over Iran’s failure to provide necessary clarifications regarding nuclear material detected at undeclared locations over the past five years. Despite multiple opportunities for cooperation offered by the Director General and the Board, Iran’s continued denials have impeded the Agency’s ability to assure that its nuclear program remains peaceful. Iran’s non-compliance with its safeguards obligations raises significant concerns regarding the integrity of the non-proliferation regime.
Additionally, the report highlighted concerning activities that Iran did not declare at locations such as Turquzabad, Varamin, Marivan, and Lavisan-Shian. The lack of information from Iran has led to the IAEA’s inability to resolve these matters and ascertain the technical credibility of Iran’s nuclear activities. The Quad reaffirmed its support for the IAEA’s mission, underscoring the value of its technical expertise in investigating potential undeclared nuclear materials.
The Director General’s report indicated that Iran continues to withhold design information for new nuclear facilities, contravening its safeguards agreement, which is particularly alarming given its history of clandestine operations. Iran has also resisted accepting the designation of experienced inspectors, undermining the IAEA’s verification capabilities within the country. The increasing rhetoric from senior Iranian officials about the technical capability to build nuclear weapons further escalates concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear pursuits.
The Quad commended the IAEA’s attempts to engage Iran constructively but noted that years of delays necessitate that Iran fulfill its commitments without further hesitation. The Board previously adopted resolutions urging Iran to cooperate, which have been ignored, indicating an urgent need for Iran to align its actions with its obligations under the NPT.
The Board mandated the Director General to perform a comprehensive assessment addressing the presence of undeclared nuclear materials and Iran’s compliance history. As Iran has failed to progress despite ample opportunity, the Quad urged for this assessment to be expedited to determine the subsequent steps. The patience shown by the Quad is waning; they indicated willingness to declare Iran in non-compliance should concrete advancements remain absent.
In conclusion, the Quad stressed the need for transparent engagement with the IAEA regarding Iran’s nuclear activities. They reiterated their commitment to supporting the Agency’s investigations to uphold international security and the non-proliferation framework. Iran must be held accountable for its actions and cooperate fully, as the opportunity for constructive dialogue remains long overdue.
The Quad’s statement to the IAEA on Iran’s NPT Safeguards Agreement highlights significant concerns regarding Iran’s continued non-compliance and lack of cooperation. Despite numerous opportunities for clarification and resolution, Iran has failed to meet its obligations, raising alarms about the transparency of its nuclear program. The Quad emphasized the necessity of a tangible commitment from Iran to adhere to the Safeguards Agreement, warning of potential consequences should this non-compliance continue. The situation underscores the urgent requirements for international oversight and accountability in nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
