Iran scraps nuclear deal as tensions with the West escalate sharply
Tensions between Iran and Western powers have risen sharply after Tehran scrapped a key nuclear agreement. The move follows a UN watchdog resolution calling for greater access to Iran’s sensitive nuclear sites. Iranian officials have accused the US and European nations of pushing for further confrontation.
The dispute centres on the now-defunct Cairo Agreement, which was designed to ease restrictions on inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This deal came after a brief but intense conflict between Iran and Israel in mid-June, during which nuclear facilities near Ghom and Tehran were reportedly targeted. The sites, located in the mountainous region near Fordo, became a focal point for international concern.
High-level nuclear talks between Iran and the US had already stalled before the war. The discussions, which began in April, hit a deadlock over Iran’s insistence on its right to enrich uranium. The situation worsened when the IAEA passed a resolution demanding Iran grant 'full and prompt' cooperation, including unrestricted access to its nuclear locations.
In response, Iran formally declared the Cairo Agreement 'null and void' in an official letter to the IAEA. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the resolution as a deliberate act of provocation by the US, UK, Germany, and France. He warned that their actions were driving the region toward further escalation.
The collapse of the Cairo Agreement leaves Iran’s nuclear programme under renewed scrutiny. With inspections now in doubt, the IAEA’s ability to monitor sensitive sites has been weakened. The standoff also casts uncertainty over future negotiations between Tehran and Western powers.
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