Iran’s Parliament has unanimously passed a law suspending all cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), citing the agency’s alleged role in enabling hostile actions by Israel and its Western allies against Iran’s peaceful nuclear infrastructure.
The legislation, enacted on June 26, 2025, marks a significant escalation in Iran’s response to perceived threats to its nuclear programme.
Parliamentary action and official statements
Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, announced the law’s formal enactment, stating, “Today, following approval by the Constitutional Council, the law suspending cooperation with the IAEA has been officially communicated.”
In a post on X, Qalibaf emphasised, “Continued collaboration with an agency that acts as an enabler of war and aggression and serves as an executor of the inhumane interests of the illegitimate Zionist regime is impossible until we are assured of the full security of our nuclear facilities.”
The law, passed by all 221 lawmakers present, mandates an immediate halt to all IAEA cooperation under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and its safeguards.
Cooperation will remain suspended until two conditions are met: the full security of Iran’s nuclear centers and scientists, as determined by the Supreme National Security Council and in accordance with the UN Charter, and the full recognition of Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear enrichment under Article 4 of the NPT.
Enforcement and compliance measures
The legislation requires the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran to verify compliance, with final approval from the Supreme National Security Council.
The government must submit compliance reports to Parliament and the Supreme Council every three months. An enforcement clause stipulates that any person or entity obstructing the law’s execution will face criminal prosecution under Article 19 of the Islamic Penal Code, with penalties classified under Level 6 of the disciplinary framework.
Constitutional Council spokesman Hadi Tahan Nazif confirmed the legislation’s approval, stating that the government is now legally obligated to halt all IAEA collaboration until Iran’s sovereignty and national security conditions are met.
Context and implications
The decision comes amid heightened tensions following reported US and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which Iran claims caused minimal damage. Iranian officials, including Behrouz Kamalvandi of the Atomic Energy Organization, have reiterated that the country’s nuclear program remains intact and will continue to expand for peaceful purposes.
The suspension of IAEA cooperation signals Iran’s resolve to protect its nuclear infrastructure and assert its rights under international law, potentially complicating diplomatic efforts to address its nuclear activities.
Source: Tasnim News Agency