Iran Halts UN Nuclear Watchdog Cooperation After U.S. Strikes Cripple Sites

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has pulled the plug on cooperation with the UN’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), following a law passed by Iran’s parliament. This dramatic move comes hot on the heels of the U.S.-led Operation Midnight Hammer, which targeted three of Iran’s key nuclear sites: Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. The strikes have left Iran’s nuclear ambitions reeling, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei admitting to Al Jazeera that the facilities were severely damaged.

The new law mandates that any future IAEA inspections must get a green light from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, a clear signal of Tehran’s distrust. Iran accuses the IAEA of cozying up to the U.S. and Israel, especially after a June resolution that Tehran claims greenlit Israel’s strikes. No timeline or specifics for this suspension were provided, leaving the global community on edge.

Meanwhile, nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran are in limbo. After Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, Iran hesitated to reengage, wary of U.S. involvement in the attacks. Yet, President Donald Trump remains optimistic, hinting at potential talks soon after June 25. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, however, isn’t holding his breath. Speaking to CBS News, he stressed that diplomacy’s door remains ajar but cautioned that negotiations won’t restart unless the U.S. guarantees no further military strikes.

As Iran’s nuclear sites lie in ruins, questions swirl about Tehran’s next move. Will they double down on their nuclear dreams, or is this a pivot toward diplomacy? The world watches, waiting for answers.