US Representative at IAEA Expresses Disappointment Over Iran's Cooperation with Inspectors

One day before the start of crucial negotiations between Iran and the 1+5 group regarding its nuclear program, the US representative at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed disappointment over Tehran's cooperation with the agency's inspectors. According to Reuters, Laura Kennedy stated on Monday, November 26, that she is disheartened by Iran's lack of constructive engagement with inspectors regarding its nuclear program. The US representative indicated that on Tuesday, November 27, she would inform the members of the Board of Governors about her government's concerns regarding Iran's non-cooperation with the agency concerning the military dimensions of its nuclear program. US officials have repeatedly stated that concerns about the potential military aspects of Iran's nuclear program must be addressed as part of a comprehensive agreement between Iran and global powers, after which the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program can be assured. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State John Kerry is heading to Europe to participate in sensitive negotiations between Iran and the 1+5, scheduled to take place in Vienna starting Tuesday. The Secretary of State is expected to travel from London to Vienna to attend the final round of negotiations before the December 3 deadline. The Islamic Republic of Iran and the political leaders of powerful Western countries had previously agreed to reach a comprehensive nuclear agreement by December 3, which is about a week away. Iran has been negotiating with global powers regarding its nuclear program since 2003, and these discussions ultimately led to a temporary six-month agreement on December 3, 2013, among Iran, the US, France, the UK, Germany, China, and Russia. This agreement was then extended for another six months and is now nearing its conclusion. The parties must reach a comprehensive agreement to resolve ambiguities regarding Iran's nuclear program within a week.