Russia criticizes IAEA resolution on Iran as 'disgraceful'

Russia's Permanent Representative to the international organizations in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, criticized the IAEA Board of Governors' resolution against Iran during a news briefing on Thursday. The resolution, approved two weeks earlier by the 35-member Board, requests IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to report Iran to the Security Council for alleged breaches of non-proliferation obligations. It was put forward by the United States, Britain, France, and Germany.

Ulyanov pointed out that the Board had already adopted an anti-Iran resolution in June, but returned to the issue a few months later, despite rules that prohibit raising a matter within a certain time frame once a decision has been made. He stated, "This simply demonstrates the irresponsible way our former partners - now opponents - are acting. They are showing complete ineptitude, as is the Board of Governors along with them." He further described the resolution as "utterly disgraceful."

The Russian envoy also noted that although the situation regarding Iran requires a serious approach, Western countries are "unable to handle it themselves, and they won't let others do so either." The resolution came three months after the Board passed a US-backed resolution demanding Iran report its enriched uranium stocks and allow inspectors to verify them.

According to Mehr News, Ulyanov's remarks underscore ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program and the divisions within the international community regarding its oversight.