Vienna: The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Mohammad Eslami, has labeled the June attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran’s nuclear facilities as a direct threat to the credibility of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the integrity of its safeguards system. Eslami addressed the 69th General Conference of the IAEA in Vienna, expressing concerns over the lack of decisive action from both the IAEA Board of Governors and the UN Security Council, attributing this inaction to US political pressure.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Eslami questioned the value of the safeguards if safeguarded nuclear facilities can be targeted without consequence. He criticized the international community’s failure to protect Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and condemned the attacks as violations of international law, including the UN Charter and the IAEA Statute. Eslami emphasized Iran’s historical commitment to nuclear science and technology, asserting that such attacks aim to sabotage diplomacy and peace.

Eslami’s speech highlighted the unprecedented nature of the aggression against Iran, stressing that it contravenes numerous international resolutions and principles. He expressed disappointment in the IAEA’s lack of condemnation of these acts and called for new arrangements to ensure the safety and security of nuclear facilities and personnel. Eslami reiterated Iran’s commitment to the Non-Proliferation Treaty, despite the altered security environment, and emphasized the need for international law to be upheld.

The Iranian official pointed to the broader implications of the attacks, noting that they have disrupted the IAEA’s inspections and verification activities. He urged the international community to reject violations of sovereignty and to reaffirm that no nation is above the law. Eslami called on the IAEA General Conference to take appropriate measures in response to the unlawful attacks, emphasizing the responsibility to uphold international principles and prevent the normalization of lawlessness.