The U.S. Claims Iran's Statements Regarding the IAEA Are Considered Intimidation and Threats - 2004-05-28

The United States claims that Iran's threat to halt inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) if the agency does not validate Iran's previous cooperation is considered intimidation and threats. Richard Boucher, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, made these remarks after Tehran threatened to prevent surprise inspections of its nuclear facilities and resume uranium enrichment. Boucher stated that it is inappropriate for Iran to pressure the IAEA to overlook its past non-compliance with nuclear non-proliferation commitments. Earlier on Thursday, Iranian President Mohammad Khatami stated that Iran unilaterally allowed IAEA inspectors to inspect its nuclear sites without prior notice last year. Khatami added that the IAEA Board of Governors should acknowledge Iran's cooperation in this regard at its upcoming meeting next month. Last week, Tehran submitted a comprehensive report of its nuclear activities to the IAEA. However, the agency has indicated that if Iran's report is unsatisfactory, it may refer the matter to the United Nations Security Council next month to consider sanctions against Iran. Foreign diplomats say that IAEA inspectors have not been allowed to visit some of Iran's military sites. The Iranian president has acknowledged that access to certain military sites is prohibited for IAEA inspectors, as Tehran does not allow anyone to access its military secrets. The U.S. claims that Iran is attempting to develop nuclear weapons under the guise of peaceful nuclear energy use, an accusation that Iran has strongly denied.