International Atomic Energy Agency: Iran is Complying with the JCPOA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated on Thursday that Iran has adhered to the limitations set for its nuclear program under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), while also adding that Iran could act more swiftly in granting access for inspections of its nuclear facilities. According to Reuters, the IAEA, in its first report after the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA on May 23, noted that Iran has complied with restrictions related to uranium concentration, the volume of enriched uranium, and other limitations. However, the agency criticized Iran for delays in allowing 'additional inspections' as required by the Additional Protocol, which Iran is obligated to implement under the JCPOA. In a confidential report sent to the members of the agency, a copy of which was obtained by Reuters, it stated: 'The Agency has conducted inspections at all necessary sites and facilities in Iran as part of the additional inspections required by the Additional Protocol.' The report further emphasized that 'Iran's regular and more active cooperation for these inspections will aid in the implementation of the Additional Protocol and increase trust.' This report comes at a time when the UK, France, and Germany are working to preserve the JCPOA. The resumption of sanctions against Iran by the U.S. President has jeopardized the JCPOA and may lead to retaliatory actions by Iran. According to Donald Trump, the JCPOA has serious flaws, including its limited duration and failure to address missile programs and Iran's role in regional crises such as Syria and Yemen. Some Western companies, including the French company Total, have recently announced that they may halt activities and transactions with Iran due to the recent U.S. government decision. Senior officials from other signatory countries of the nuclear agreement, including Russia, China, France, the UK, Germany, and Iran, are set to meet on Friday to discuss the next steps in Vienna. In this context, Rouhani stated: 'Next week, I will discuss the JCPOA with the leaders of Russia and China.' Merkel stated that Germany and China will remain committed to the JCPOA. The German Foreign Minister met with Pompeo; the ongoing differences between Europe and the U.S. regarding the JCPOA continue. Khamenei has set seven conditions for Iran to remain in the JCPOA against the Europeans.