International Atomic Energy Agency & Iran

International Atomic Energy Agency’s  Inspectors are back in Iran for the first time since Israeli & US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities (June 2025 war).

Iran had suspended cooperation with the IAEA after the recent conflict with Israel, accusing it of failing to condemn attacks.

• Diplomacy: Iran urges diplomacy, seeking to avert sanctions.
  • Talks ongoing in Geneva between Iran & E3 (Britain, France, Germany).
  • E3 threatening “snapback sanctions” under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Background of Iran’s Nuclear Issue

• JCPOA (2015 Nuclear Deal): Iran agreed to limit enrichment & allow inspections in return for sanctions relief.
• US withdrawal (2018): Donald Trump exited JCPOA, reimposed sanctions.
• Israel’s concern: Claims Iran pursuing nuclear weapons .
• June 2025 War: Israeli strikes → Iran’s suspension of IAEA cooperation.

Strategic Implications

1. For IAEA: Re-entry is crucial for transparency & global nuclear security.
2. For Iran: Avoiding snapback sanctions is vital to stabilize the economy amid war damage.
3. For Global Politics: Renewed tensions revive debates around non-proliferation vs national sovereignty.
4. For India:
   • Balances ties with Iran (Chabahar Port, energy) & US/EU (strategic partners).
   • Dependent on West Asian stability for energy security.

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