Quad’s Statement on Iran’s NPT Safeguards Agreement at IAEA Board Meeting, March 2025

In March 2025, the Quad, represented by UK Ambassador Corinne Kitsell, commended the IAEA for efforts regarding Iran’s compliance with its NPT Safeguards Agreement. They expressed concerns about Iran’s ongoing refusal to clarify unresolved nuclear issues, emphasizing the need for full cooperation to ensure the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and maintain global non-proliferation efforts.

In March 2025, the United Kingdom Ambassador Corinne Kitsell, addressing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board on behalf of France, Germany, the United States, and the UK (the Quad), commended the Agency for its ongoing efforts to clarify unresolved issues regarding Iran’s Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Safeguards Agreement. The Quad expressed appreciation for the Director General’s report, which is essential for understanding the true nature of Iran’s nuclear program.

The Quad expressed profound regret regarding Iran’s refusal to clarify the presence of nuclear material at undeclared sites over the past five years. Despite repeated appeals, Iran has not cooperated with the Agency, thus hindering their ability to affirm that Iran’s nuclear program is solely peaceful. The group emphasized the importance of adhering to safeguards obligations and indicated that the Board might need to conclude that Iran is non-compliant if it persists in its refusal to cooperate.

The latest IAEA assessment highlighted concerning undeclared nuclear activities at various sites in Iran, including Turquzabad and Lavisan-Shian. The Board noted the lack of progress in resolving discrepancies related to nuclear material at Jaber Ibn Hayan Laboratory. The Iranian government continues to challenge the IAEA’s technical findings rather than engage constructively to address these issues while the Agency remains unable to resolve concerns due to insufficient information.

Notably, Iran has also failed to provide required design information for new nuclear facilities and has rejected the designation of additional experienced inspectors, undermining the Agency’s verification efforts. The Quad expressed concern regarding hostile public statements from Iranian officials suggesting a shift toward developing nuclear weapons, further complicating assurances of compliance with safeguards obligations.

The Quad recognized the IAEA’s dedication to engaging with Iran but urged Iran to finally fulfill its commitments rather than delaying with future promises. It called for the Board to support the IAEA in pursuing clarity about Iran’s nuclear activities while reiterating that Iran must cooperate fully to avoid further isolation and international repercussions.

The Board’s resolutions from 2024 urging Iranian cooperation went unheeded, necessitating the Director General’s comprehensive assessment of Iran’s potential use of undeclared nuclear materials as set forth in their November resolution. It is critical that Iran provides concrete and credible explanations to inform the Agency’s investigations.

The Quad’s statements highlight the urgent need for Iran to comply with its NPT Safeguards Agreement amidst rising concerns regarding its nuclear advancements. Despite repeated calls for cooperation, Iran continues to defy obligations, prompting potential considerations of non-compliance by the Board. As security and non-proliferation remain paramount, the situation necessitates that Iran substantiate its nuclear activities transparently.

Original Source: www.gov.uk