IAEA Board of Governors Passes Anti-Iran Resolution

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors, in its latest meeting, passed a resolution against Iran's peaceful nuclear program. The resolution was adopted with 19 votes in favor, 11 abstentions, and 3 votes against. According to Mehr News, the resolution was based on what it described as fake Israeli information and did not take into account Iran's extensive cooperation with the IAEA.

The Board of Governors, which consists of 35 members, has historically taken positions against Iran. Among its members, 13 are from developed countries in nuclear energy, including the United States, the UK, and France—nations that possess nuclear weapons. The US has a history of using nuclear weapons against Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The remaining members are elected by the General Assembly or represent developing countries. Currently, the board includes 7 European countries, 5 from the Americas, 4 from Africa, 2 from West and South Asia, 1 from Southeast Asia, and 1 from East Asia. This composition ensures that Western countries and their allies dominate policy decisions.

The report notes that the board meets five times a year—in March, June, September (twice), and November—and sets policies favoring nuclear powers. Traditionally, resolutions against Iran are proposed by three European countries (France, Britain, and Germany) with US support, regardless of Iran's level of cooperation with the IAEA. The article argues that the IAEA's founding philosophy is to preserve the nuclear industry for a few powerful nations and prevent independent countries from accessing nuclear energy, even for peaceful purposes.

Mehr News criticized the IAEA for not addressing Israel's nuclear program, which it called a major strategic mistake. The report also highlighted the anti-Iran stance of IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, who did not condemn the US and Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. In response, Iran's diplomatic apparatus is expected to issue statements and show necessary reactions. However, the article suggests that a change in Iran's defense doctrine and strengthening deterrence through nuclear energy could make the IAEA and resolution sponsors reconsider. It cited Iran's geopolitical influence, such as managing the Strait of Hormuz, as an example of effective deterrence that could be replicated in the nuclear field.