In a dramatic escalation of nuclear tensions, Iran’s parliament has voted to suspend cooperation with the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) following recent military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites by Israel and the United States. The vote, passed on Wednesday by the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles), awaits ratification by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, chaired by President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Lawmakers were seen chanting “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” after the vote, according to state media outlet IRIB. The move comes amid Iran’s growing criticism of the IAEA, accusing it of failing to condemn the strikes that began on June 13 and targeted key nuclear facilities at Fordo, Isfahan, and Natanz, killing several senior scientists and commanders.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has warned of the presence of “unexploded ordnance” at Iran’s nuclear sites, calling the inspection conditions “highly unusual.” Grossi said that his top priority remains re-engaging with Iran and restoring inspection access. Talks may take place in Vienna, but inspections remain suspended.
According to U.S. intelligence, the strikes have set Iran’s nuclear programme back only by months, despite claims by President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that it was “obliterated.”
Experts caution that Iran’s suspension of cooperation with the IAEA would cripple international monitoring efforts, heighten nuclear proliferation risks, and further isolate Tehran diplomatically. It may also provoke renewed sanctions or even military action by Western nations, threatening stability in the region.
