Iran denies IAEA allegations of undeclared nuclear material

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
10 Jun 2023 15:20

Iran's permanent mission to the United Nations says the IAEA's assertion is based on “fabricated information” provided by "Israel".

A nuclear facility located in Natanz, Iran, April 9 2007 (AP)

Iran's permanent mission to the United Nations has responded to the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) chief report on the non-proliferation treaty with Iran, dismissing the claims made by the agency.

The Iranian mission stated that there is no undeclared nuclear material in the country, adding that the IAEA relied on "fabricated information" provided by "Israel".

The delegation emphasized Iran's commitment to complying with its obligations under the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (INFCIRC/214) and highlighted the country's cooperation with the IAEA's verification activities.

Regarding the issue of the so-called three locations, Iran pointed out that the origin of the issue stems from fabricated information provided by "Israel", which has not yet accepted any nuclear non-proliferation law and has a history of disregarding decisions of the IAEA and the UNGA, according to the mission.

Iran reiterated that it has not had any locations that need to be declared under the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement, and its nuclear activities remain peaceful under the IAEA's safeguards, adding that "there is no legal basis for expressing 'deep concern' by the Director General."

The diplomatic mission added that the presence of natural uranium particles in environmental samples cannot be considered evidence of the presence of nuclear material. Iran stated that it made efforts to investigate the origin of these particles, suggesting the possibility of external elements, such as sabotage and malicious acts, being involved in the contamination.

The Islamic Republic of Iran emphasized that its nuclear-related activities, including the production and inventory of centrifuges, heavy water, and uranium ore concentrate, are outside the scope of the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement and any measures in this regard are voluntary and related to commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The Iranian mission also urged the IAEA not to disregard the possibility of Iran's enemies providing false information and engaging in sabotage acts.

Regarding the allegations about explosive experiments at the "Marivan/Abadeh" location, Iran maintained its position as stated in its explanatory note and welcomed the conclusion by the Director General that the matter is no longer outstanding.

Tehran rejected other allegations that are not within the scope of the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement.

The Agency has cited information relevant to safeguards, which it claims supports the existence of the 'Marivan/Abadeh' location. However, Iran dismisses this information as it is based on only two inauthentic images from unknown locations. Iran stated that these images cannot be considered evidence since they can be easily produced, forged, or manipulated.

Iran reiterates its commitment to extensive cooperation with the Agency. The mission further warned against allowing "short-sighted political interests" to undermine the progress made between the two parties, as it called on all parties including the Agency and Member States to approach these issues with wisdom and caution, in order to maintain the existing cooperation.