Global Tensions Rise as IAEA Slams Iran Over Nuclear Secrecy

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has issued a rare formal rebuke of Iran, accusing the Islamic Republic of failing to uphold its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

This is the first resolution of its kind in nearly two decades, signaling growing international concern over Iran’s opaque nuclear activities.

The resolution, which was proposed by the United States, France, Britain, and Germany, passed with 19 out of 35 votes at the IAEA board meeting. China, Russia, and Burkina Faso opposed the motion, while 11 countries abstained and 2 declined to vote.

“Iran has not provided credible explanations regarding undeclared nuclear material at multiple unacknowledged sites,” the IAEA stated.

The watchdog stressed that Iran’s continued lack of transparency undermines global nuclear security.

In a swift and furious response, Iran warned it might withdraw completely from the NPT, a move that could spark a full-blown nuclear crisis in the Middle East.

The resolution and its backing have only deepened diplomatic rifts, particularly between Tehran and Western powers, who are calling for immediate and verifiable cooperation from the Iranian regime.

This latest development comes less than two months after former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning during a meeting with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele at the White House. Trump hinted at severe repercussions, including the possibility of a direct strike on Iranian nuclear facilities if Tehran continues to defy international oversight.

“We won't rule out any options when it comes to preventing a nuclear Iran,” Trump said at the time.

The IAEA’s move marks a serious escalation in the ongoing nuclear standoff with Iran, which has long maintained that its atomic program is for peaceful purposes. However, the lack of transparency and Iran’s threats to abandon international agreements have raised alarms across global capitals.

As tensions mount, analysts fear a return to high-stakes brinkmanship, with the Middle East potentially becoming a flashpoint for renewed conflict if diplomacy fails.

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