The International Atomic Energy Agency has again criticized Iran over non-cooperation on its nuclear program.
Adopting a resolutin by a 19-3 vote with 12 abstentions and one absence, the UN’s nuclear watchdog repeated its call for Tehran to provide answers in a long-running investigation. The IAEA is examining uranium particles found at two locations that Iran failed to declare in the early 21st century.
The resolution was put forward by France, Germany and Britain, supported by the US. Only Russia, China, and Burkina Faso opposed it.
It requires the IAEA to produce a “comprehensive and updated assessment” of Iran’s nuclear activities, which could eventually trigger a referral to the UN Security Council and consideration of sanctions.
The IAEA’s 35-member Board of Governors adopted a similar resolution in June.
See also IAEA Censures Iran Over Failure to Cooperate on Nuclear Programs
In a confidential report this week, the IAEA found Iran increased its stockpile of 60% uranium, which can potentially enriched to weapons-grade purity of 90%.
As of October 26, Iran had 182.3 kg (401.9 pounds) of 60% uranium, an increase of 17.6 kilograms (38.8 pounds) since the previous report in August.
The IAEA estimates that around 42 kg (92.5 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity is the amount at which creation of one atomic weapon is theoretically possible.
Condemning the “unjustifiable” resolution, Iran ordered the activation of advanced centrifuges which can produce even more 60% uranium.
The Foreign Ministry and Atomic Energy Organization said in a statement:
This politicized and destructive measure undermines the positive momentum achieved between Iran and the Agency and blatantly contradicts the professed commitment of the three European nations and the United States to preserving the integrity and impartiality of the IAEA. It lays bare their use of the nuclear issue as a pretext to advance illegitimate objectives.
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