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The logo of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the national flag of Iran. / Reuters·Yonhap.

Reuters reported on June 10 (local time) that the 35‑nation Board of Governors of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) adopted a resolution led by the United States calling on Iran to declare its enriched uranium reserves.

According to Reuters, the resolution was jointly proposed by the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, and passed with 21 votes in favor, 3 against (Russia, China, Niger), and 10 abstentions.

The resolution stipulates that Iran must report its enriched uranium stockpile to the IAEA and allow inspectors immediate and full access so the agency can verify the information.

The four Western countries said in a statement to the board, “Iran’s actions not only raise urgent concerns about the nature of its nuclear program but also threaten the very credibility of the international nuclear safety regime.”

According to the IAEA, before Israeli and U.S. airstrikes in June, Iran possessed 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60 percent purity, a level close to weapons‑grade.

Although Iran’s enrichment facilities were destroyed or severely damaged in last year’s attacks, it is believed that uranium enriched close to weapons‑grade still remains.

Iran has not reported its uranium stockpile since the strikes and has refused to allow inspectors to verify the bombed facilities.

Iran strongly objected, calling the resolution “a political act that justifies U.S. military attacks.”

Iran’s delegation warned the board, “Caution is needed in the path ahead.”

Reza Najafi, Iran’s permanent representative to the IAEA and other international organizations in Vienna, stated, “The resolution does not address the root causes of the current situation, focusing only on the consequences and making excessive demands on Iran.”

Iran has previously responded to resolutions targeting its nuclear activities by expanding its nuclear work or reducing cooperation with the IAEA.

                                                                                                            Park Jin‑sook