Iran Demands End to IAEA ‘Double Standards’

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to end what he described as “double standards” if it wants Tehran to resume cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog. The demand follows Iran’s suspension of collaboration with the agency after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, which triggered a 12-day conflict with Israel.

Pezeshkian made the remarks in a phone call with European Council President Antonio Costa. “The continuation of Iran’s cooperation with the agency depends on the latter correcting its double standards regarding the nuclear file,” he was quoted as saying by state media.

After the strikes, the IAEA pulled its last remaining inspectors from Iran, and Tehran passed legislation halting all cooperation with the agency. The IAEA had earlier issued a resolution accusing Iran of violating its non-proliferation obligations—language Iran says gave Washington and Tel Aviv political cover to conduct military strikes.

Tehran insists its nuclear program is entirely peaceful and denies it seeks atomic weapons. Iranian officials say the agency failed to condemn the bombing campaign, thus undermining its credibility as a neutral international actor.

Pezeshkian also warned of consequences if attacks on Iran resume. “Any repeated aggression will be met with a more decisive and regrettable response,” he said.

The IAEA has said returning to Iranian nuclear sites is a top priority, but Iran appears unwilling to allow inspectors back without public reassurances and changes in oversight practices.