We call on Iran to urgently lift its restrictions and fully cooperate with the IAEA: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Statement by Ambassador Archie Young, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Iran.
Today, I will focus first on the need for Iran to provide access to the International Atomic Energy Agency. Then, on our continued commitment to a diplomatic solution. And, third, on the need for all member states to comply fully with Security Council resolutions.
First, as has been reported today, Iran has restricted access for the International Atomic Energy Agency for over six months, including at the sites of greatest proliferation concern.
This is despite the IAEA making clear that there is no technical or equipment-related reason preventing them from returning to the damaged sites.
Iran’s restrictions mean that the IAEA is unable to verify the location of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.
This includes over 400kg of high enriched uranium, for which there is no credible civilian justification.
We call on Iran urgently to lift its restrictions and fully cooperate with the IAEA, in line with its legal obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Second, the United Kingdom remains committed to a diplomatic solution to address international concerns with Iran’s nuclear programme.
We urge Iran to engage in direct talks with the US.
The UK, alongside its E3 partners, stands ready to support a diplomatic solution. We are engaging with all interlocutors and continue to encourage both sides to return to the negotiating table.
Future sanctions relief remains possible should Iran take concrete, verifiable, and durable steps to address international concern with its nuclear programme.
Third, we call on Iran and all member states to comply fully with Security Council decisions on Iran’s nuclear programme.
As a result of Iran’s significant non-performance of its JCPoA commitments, the United Kingdom, alongside France and Germany, triggered the snapback process in full accordance with Security Council resolution 2231.
This process completed on 28 September.
As a result, Council resolution 2231 remains in force, and the provisions of the six resolutions previously lifted have come back into effect.
All UN Member States should fully comply with the provisions of the relevant resolutions.
We are particularly concerned by the suggestion from certain permanent Council members that they will not do so.
We reiterate the importance that all members of this Council seek to maintain international peace and security.