International Atomic Energy Agency Confirms Iran's Compliance with JCPOA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated in a confidential report on Thursday that Iran has adhered to the restrictions imposed on its nuclear activities according to the 2015 agreement with world powers. According to Reuters, in its second quarterly report following the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA and the resumption of nuclear sanctions against Iran, the IAEA noted that Iran has complied with the set thresholds for uranium enrichment, enriched uranium reserves, and other matters. The IAEA's previous report in May indicated that Iran could enhance its cooperation with inspectors, thereby 'strengthening trust.' However, that report did not mention any activities by Iran that might be concerning. The report, which was shared with member countries of the agency on Thursday and seen by Reuters, maintains the same tone and language as the previous report. The report states that the IAEA has been able to conduct all so-called complementary inspections to monitor Iran's commitment to the nuclear agreement. It adds: 'Iran's timely and active cooperation for these inspections facilitates the implementation of the Additional Protocol and strengthens trust.' A senior diplomat stated: 'The level and rate of uranium enrichment have remained stable and unchanged.' Reuters adds that in light of the resumption of U.S. nuclear sanctions against Iran, many diplomats and experts believe that even with the European Union's efforts to mitigate the impacts of Donald Trump's policies, it is unlikely that the nuclear agreement (JCPOA) will be maintained. On Wednesday, Ayatollah Khamenei, the leader of Iran, expressed doubt about the EU's ability to preserve this agreement and stated that Iran might withdraw from it. Ayatollah Khamenei advised President Hassan Rouhani, who is under significant pressure for managing the economy domestically, not to rely too heavily on European assistance.