IAEA raised concerns over nuclear plants in Ukraine. This comes after Russian shelling resulted in a fire incident near Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya nuclear plant. It also backed a trilateral meeting in Chernobyl. Russia however, agrees but not about the venue.

IAEA demands urgent talks in Chernobyl

In an effort to remove an obstacle for reviving the nuclear deal, Iran and IAEA, the UN nuclear watchdog, on Saturday agreed for a three-month plan to resolve the issue of uranium particles, which were found at old but undeclared sites in the country. &nbsp;

The delegates are looking to settle the final issues within days as the indirect talks have been going on between Iran and the United States for over 11 months to salvage the 2015 deal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-un-watchdog-agree-approach-to-resolve-nuclear-issues-459333" hreflang="en">Iran, UN watchdog agree approach to resolve nuclear issues</a>

According to the diplomats, one unresolved issue has been the Iran’s demand for the closure of the International Atomic Energy Agency's investigation into uranium particles, which were found at three apparently old but undeclared sites. It had suggested that Iran had nuclear material there but it did not declare it to the agency. &nbsp;

The agency has been saying for a long time that Iran has not given satisfactory reply on those issues. But on Saturday, they announced a plan for a series of exchanges. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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After this, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi "will aim to report his conclusion by the June 2022 (IAEA) Board of Governors" meeting, which begins on June 6. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a news conference, when asked about what would be the effect on the deal if the issues remain unresolved, Grossi said, "It would be difficult to imagine you can have a cooperative relationship as if nothing had happened if the clarification of very important safeguards issues were to fail." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an effort to remove an obstacle for reviving the nuclear deal, Iran and IAEA, the UN nuclear watchdog, on Saturday agreed for a three-month plan to resolve the issue of uranium particles, which were found at old but undeclared sites in the country.

In an effort to remove an obstacle for reviving the nuclear deal, Iran and IAEA, the UN nuclear watchdog, on Saturday agreed for a three-month plan to resolve the issue of uranium particles, which were found at old but undeclared sites in the country. The delegates are looking to settle the final issues within days as the indirect talks have been going on between Iran and the United States for over 11 months to salvage the 2015 deal. Also Read: Iran, UN watchdog agree approach to resolve nuclear issues According to the diplomats, one unresolved issue has been the Iran’s demand for the closure of the International Atomic Energy Agency's investigation into uranium particles, which were found at three apparently old but undeclared sites. It had suggested that Iran had nuclear material there but it did not declare it to the agency. The agency has been saying for a long time that Iran has not given satisfactory reply on those issues. But on Saturday, they announced a plan for a series of exchanges. Also Read: Iraq's delayed presidential vote back on After this, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi "will aim to report his conclusion by the June 2022 (IAEA) Board of Governors" meeting, which begins on June 6. In a news conference, when asked about what would be the effect on the deal if the issues remain unresolved, Grossi said, "It would be difficult to imagine you can have a cooperative relationship as if nothing had happened if the clarification of very important safeguards issues were to fail." (With inputs from agencies)

To remove obstacle for reviving nuke deal, Iran, IAEA agree on 3-month timeline

Will Russia's invasion of Ukraine damage Iran Nuclear deal talks? IAEA presented queries to Tehran as the Nuclear agency chief reaches Iran.

IAEA presents queries to Tehran as Nuclear agency chief reaches Iran

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Russian forces have seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant&nbsp;in Ukraine's southeast, the regional state administration said on Friday.

It is the&nbsp;Europe's largest&nbsp;nuclear power plant.

"Operational personnel are monitoring the condition of power units," it said on social media, while quoting the Ukrainian nuclear inspectorate.

Efforts are being made to ensure the operations were in line with safety requirements,&nbsp;it said.

A fire, which had broken out in a training building in the plant, has been extinguished, Ukraine's state emergency service had earlier said on Friday. &nbsp;

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This comes as intense fighting is going on between Russian and Ukrainian forces. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Friday, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), while citing the country's regulatory authorities, said that essential equipment at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was unaffected in the incident and there was no change in radiation levels. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Ukraine had said that the plant in its southeast was shelled overnight, the IAEA added. &nbsp;

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"The Ukraine regulatory authority said a fire at the site had not affected 'essential' equipment and plant personnel were taking mitigatory actions. There was no reported change in radiation levels at the plant," it said. &nbsp;

This plant provides more than a fifth of total electricity generated in Ukraine. &nbsp;

Earlier, a video feed from the plant also showed shelling and smoke rising near a five-storey building at the plant compound.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a video address, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy said, "Europeans, please wake up. Tell your politicians – Russian troops are shooting at a nuclear power plant in Ukraine." &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Russian forces have seized the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine's southeast, the regional state administration said on Friday. It is the Europe's largest nuclear power plant. "Operational personnel are monitoring the condition of power units," it said on social media, while quoting the Ukrainian nuclear inspectorate. Efforts are being made to ensure the operations were in line with safety requirements, it said. A fire, which had broken out in a training building in the plant, has been extinguished, Ukraine's state emergency service had earlier said on Friday. Also Read: Biden admin offers 'Temporary Protected Status' to Ukrainians in US This comes as intense fighting is going on between Russian and Ukrainian forces. On Friday, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), while citing the country's regulatory authorities, said that essential equipment at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was unaffected in the incident and there was no change in radiation levels. Ukraine had said that the plant in its southeast was shelled overnight, the IAEA added. Also Read: Ukrainian sniper killed Russia's top general, say reports "The Ukraine regulatory authority said a fire at the site had not affected 'essential' equipment and plant personnel were taking mitigatory actions. There was no reported change in radiation levels at the plant," it said. This plant provides more than a fifth of total electricity generated in Ukraine. Earlier, a video feed from the plant also showed shelling and smoke rising near a five-storey building at the plant compound. In a video address, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy said, "Europeans, please wake up. Tell your politicians – Russian troops are shooting at a nuclear power plant in Ukraine." (With inputs from agencies)

Russian forces seize Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant as Ukrainians put out fire

Draft resolution of UN nuclear watch dogs board meet has been accessed by sources which condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it was at Ukraine's request that Poland and Canada called the emergency meet.

IAEA draft resolution condemns Russian invasion of Ukraine

In a move that could potentially undermine talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, the US on Thursday threatened to confront Iran next month at the IAEA if the country does not cooperate more with the watchdog.

Tehran is embroiled in a number of standoffs with the IAEA, whose 35-nation Board of Governors is meeting this week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-nuclear-talks-would-fail-unless-biden-provides-guarantees-426395">Iran warns nuclear talks would fail unless Biden provides guarantees</a>

In 2015, then-president Donald Trump withdrew Washington from an agreement that lifted sanctions imposed on Iran, in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Afterwards, he reimposed debilitating sanctions; this led to Tehran expanding its nuclear activities and reducing cooperation with the IAEA.

As part of its investigation, the IAEA is seeking answers about the origin of uranium particles found at seemingly old but undeclared sites. The organisation also alleges that Iran is subjecting its inspectors to "excessively invasive physical searches."

"If Iran's non-cooperation is not immediately remedied ... the Board will have no choice but to reconvene in extraordinary session before the end of this year in order to address the crisis," a US statement to the Board of Governors said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/either-we-agree-on-everything-or-agree-on-nothing-iran-warns-us-over-nuclear-deal-427765">Either we agree on everything or agree on nothing: Iran warns US over nuclear deal</a>

It said it was referring "especially" to re-installing IAEA cameras at the Karaj workshop, which makes parts for advanced centrifuges that enrich uranium.

Iranian authorities are refusing to allow the IAEA to re-install surveillance cameras at a workshop at the TESA Karaj complex.&nbsp;

The country believes its arch-enemy Israel was responsible for an&nbsp;apparent sabotage attack targeted at&nbsp;that workshop in June.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran: UN nuclear watchdog monitors Iran's nuclear program

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There were&nbsp;four cameras installed there by the IAEA, but one of them was apparently destroyed and its footage lost.&nbsp;Soon after the incident, Iran removed all the cameras. The Israeli government has not responded to the incident.

Rafael Grossi, the IAEA chief, said Wednesday that he did not know if the workshop was operating again, and that time was running out for an agreement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-says-time-running-out-to-end-stand-off-over-iran-workshop-431695">IAEA chief says time running out to end stand-off over Iran workshop</a>

The purpose of an extraordinary meeting of the Board would probably be to pass a resolution against Iran, escalating diplomatic tensions with Tehran.

That may jeopardise the indirect talks between Iran and the United States about renewing the 2015 deal, which is set to resume on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a move that could potentially undermine talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, the US on Thursday threatened to confront Iran next month at the IAEA if the country does not cooperate more with the watchdog.

In a move that could potentially undermine talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, the US on Thursday threatened to confront Iran next month at the IAEA if the country does not cooperate more with the watchdog. Tehran is embroiled in a number of standoffs with the IAEA, whose 35-nation Board of Governors is meeting this week. Also read | Iran warns nuclear talks would fail unless Biden provides guarantees In 2015, then-president Donald Trump withdrew Washington from an agreement that lifted sanctions imposed on Iran, in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Afterwards, he reimposed debilitating sanctions; this led to Tehran expanding its nuclear activities and reducing cooperation with the IAEA. As part of its investigation, the IAEA is seeking answers about the origin of uranium particles found at seemingly old but undeclared sites. The organisation also alleges that Iran is subjecting its inspectors to "excessively invasive physical searches." "If Iran's non-cooperation is not immediately remedied ... the Board will have no choice but to reconvene in extraordinary session before the end of this year in order to address the crisis," a US statement to the Board of Governors said. Also read | Either we agree on everything or agree on nothing: Iran warns US over nuclear deal It said it was referring "especially" to re-installing IAEA cameras at the Karaj workshop, which makes parts for advanced centrifuges that enrich uranium. Iranian authorities are refusing to allow the IAEA to re-install surveillance cameras at a workshop at the TESA Karaj complex. The country believes its arch-enemy Israel was responsible for an apparent sabotage attack targeted at that workshop in June. Watch | Iran: UN nuclear watchdog monitors Iran's nuclear program There were four cameras installed there by the IAEA, but one of them was apparently destroyed and its footage lost. Soon after the incident, Iran removed all the cameras. The Israeli government has not responded to the incident. Rafael Grossi, the IAEA chief, said Wednesday that he did not know if the workshop was operating again, and that time was running out for an agreement. Also read | IAEA chief says time running out to end stand-off over Iran workshop The purpose of an extraordinary meeting of the Board would probably be to pass a resolution against Iran, escalating diplomatic tensions with Tehran. That may jeopardise the indirect talks between Iran and the United States about renewing the 2015 deal, which is set to resume on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

US threatens escalation with Iran at IAEA next month if Tehran does not cooperate

Time is running out for the U.N. atomic watchdog to gain access to re-install cameras at a centrifuge-parts workshop in Iran, as the agency will soon be unable to guarantee equipment is not being diverted to make atom bombs, its chief said on Wednesday.

Iran: UN nuclear watchdog monitors Iran's nuclear program

Time is running out for the U.N. atomic watchdog to gain access to re-install cameras at a centrifuge-parts workshop in Iran, as the agency will soon be unable to guarantee equipment is not being diverted to make atom bombs, its chief said on Wednesday.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi was speaking the day after a trip to Tehran in which he said he made no progress on several disputes, the most pressing of which is getting access to the workshop at the TESA Karaj complex two months after Iran promised to grant it.

The workshop makes parts for advanced centrifuges - machines that enrich uranium - and was the victim of apparent sabotage in June. Tehran blames Israel for what it says was an attack, which destroyed one of four IAEA cameras there. Iran later removed all the cameras and the destroyed camera's footage is missing.

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"We are close to the point where I would not be able to guarantee continuity of knowledge," Grossi told a news conference on the first day of a quarterly meeting of his agency's 35-nation Board of Governors.

That would mean there was a gap in IAEA monitoring of sensitive installations, during which a significant amount of material or equipment could be siphoned off to a secret nuclear weapons programme.

The IAEA has repeatedly said it has no indication that Iran has a secret weapons programme, and Iran insists its aims are peaceful. But Grossi said he still does not know whether Karaj is operational or not five months after the apparent attack.

"It is obvious that such a long period of time without us getting access, knowing whether there are operational activities ongoing, is something that in itself would at some point prevent me from continuing to say 'I have an idea of what is going on'," Grossi said.

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Complicating factor

The issue is a complicating factor ahead of indirect talks between the United States and Iran on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal with major powers that resume in Vienna on Monday.

The United States and its European allies would normally pressure Iran on the issue by trying to pass a resolution against it at the IAEA's quarterly meeting.

However, diplomats say it is unlikely there will be any such attempt this time for fear of jeopardising those talks aimed at bringing Tehran and the United States back into full compliance with the 2015 deal.

That deal lifted international sanctions against Tehran in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities, but little currently remains of the pact in practice.

Former President Donald Trump, who vehemently opposed the deal struck before he took office, pulled Washington out of the agreement and reimposed US&nbsp;sanctions on Iran, prompting Iran to progressively breach its restrictions and keep advancing its nuclear activities.

Time is running out for the U.N. atomic watchdog to gain access to re-install cameras at a centrifuge-parts workshop in Iran, as the agency will soon be unable to guarantee equipment is not being diverted to make atom bombs, its chief said on Wednesday. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi was speaking the day after a trip to Tehran in which he said he made no progress on several disputes, the most pressing of which is getting access to the workshop at the TESA Karaj complex two months after Iran promised to grant it. The workshop makes parts for advanced centrifuges - machines that enrich uranium - and was the victim of apparent sabotage in June. Tehran blames Israel for what it says was an attack, which destroyed one of four IAEA cameras there. Iran later removed all the cameras and the destroyed camera's footage is missing. Also read | 'I am a WOMAN': Iranian goalkeeper Zohreh Koudaei reacts to claims that she is a MAN, vows to sue Jordanian FA "We are close to the point where I would not be able to guarantee continuity of knowledge," Grossi told a news conference on the first day of a quarterly meeting of his agency's 35-nation Board of Governors. That would mean there was a gap in IAEA monitoring of sensitive installations, during which a significant amount of material or equipment could be siphoned off to a secret nuclear weapons programme. The IAEA has repeatedly said it has no indication that Iran has a secret weapons programme, and Iran insists its aims are peaceful. But Grossi said he still does not know whether Karaj is operational or not five months after the apparent attack. "It is obvious that such a long period of time without us getting access, knowing whether there are operational activities ongoing, is something that in itself would at some point prevent me from continuing to say 'I have an idea of what is going on'," Grossi said. Also read | Iran frees two soldiers kidnapped by Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group Complicating factor The issue is a complicating factor ahead of indirect talks between the United States and Iran on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal with major powers that resume in Vienna on Monday. The United States and its European allies would normally pressure Iran on the issue by trying to pass a resolution against it at the IAEA's quarterly meeting. However, diplomats say it is unlikely there will be any such attempt this time for fear of jeopardising those talks aimed at bringing Tehran and the United States back into full compliance with the 2015 deal. That deal lifted international sanctions against Tehran in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities, but little currently remains of the pact in practice. Former President Donald Trump, who vehemently opposed the deal struck before he took office, pulled Washington out of the agreement and reimposed US sanctions on Iran, prompting Iran to progressively breach its restrictions and keep advancing its nuclear activities.

IAEA chief says time running out to end stand-off over Iran workshop

The UN nuclear watchdog on Wednesday reported that Iran has again boosted its stock of highly enriched uranium, just days before talks are set to resume seeking to revive the 2015 nuclear deal.

In a report seen by AFP, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) estimated Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium at 2,489.7 kilograms -- many times in excess of the limit laid down in the 2015 agreement.

The total amount now includes 113.8 kg enriched to 20 percent, up from 84.3 kg in September, and 17.7 kg enriched up to 60 percent, up from 10 kg, the report said.

The document will be discussed during the IAEA's Board of Governors, scheduled for next week with diplomats preparing to restart talks in Vienna on November 29 over reviving the moribund 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.

The remaining parties to the deal -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- will join the talks while the United States will participate indirectly.

Iran's acting head of mission to UN agencies in Vienna, Mohammad Reza Ghaebi, said the new report "shows that the IAEA has continued its verification and surveillance activities regarding Tehran's engagements."

Quoted by Iranian media, he said that talks were ongoing to "solve some issues between the two parties" and called on IAEA member states to refrain from "making hasty or politically motivated comments".

A spokesman for Iran's atomic agency told Fars news agency on Wednesday that IAEA chief Rafael Grossi would arrive in Tehran on Monday.&nbsp;

Grossi will meet Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Iranian Atomic Energy Organization chief Mohammad Eslami on Tuesday, the spokesman added.

- 'Astonishing' lack of contact -

On November 12, Grossi described as "astonishing" his lack of contact with the new Iranian government of President Ebrahim Raisi.

He said he had hoped to meet Iranian officials ahead of the next meeting of the IAEA's Board of Governors, scheduled for next week.

During Grossi's last visit to Tehran in September, he clinched a deal on access to monitoring equipment at Iran's nuclear facilities.

But days later, the IAEA complained that it was prevented from "indispensable" access to a unit at the TESA complex in the city of Karaj, near Tehran, in violation of the September deal.

Iran's ambassador to the IAEA rejected the charge, however, tweeting that "equipment related to this complex are not included for servicing", referring to IAEA work on its monitoring equipment.

The IAEA on Wednesday also "categorically" denied its cameras had played a part in an unclaimed June attack on the TESA complex.

Tehran -- which has blamed its arch-enemy Israel -- told the agency it was investigating the possibility, the IAEA said in its report.

'Excessively invasive'

The agreement that Grossi reached in September was an extension of a deal struck in February after Iran limited some of the IAEA's activities in the country.

Wednesday's report warned, however, that the repeated prolongation of the agreement was "becoming a significant challenge to the Agency's ability to restore... continuity of knowledge" about Iran's nuclear activities.

It warned that establishing clarity on activities in Karaj "has been widely recognised as essential in relation to a return to the JCPOA", referring to the 2015 nuclear deal.

The Vienna talks later this month will discuss the possibility of reviving that agreement, which offered Tehran relief from sanctions in exchange for major curbs on its nuclear activities.

The United States unilaterally pulled out of the accord in 2018 under the administration of President Donald Trump.

In response, Iran began in 2019 walking back on its commitments under the nuclear deal, notably increasing its uranium enrichment.&nbsp;

In a separate report also issued on Wednesday, the IAEA said there had been virtually no progress in resolving several questions the agency has about the previous presence of nuclear material at undeclared sites in the country.

That report also noted that Grossi was "concerned by the incidences of Agency inspectors being subjected to excessively invasive physical searches by security officials at nuclear facilities" and called on Iran to "take immediate steps to rectify the situation".

The UN nuclear watchdog on Wednesday reported that Iran has again boosted its stock of highly enriched uranium, just days before talks are set to resume seeking to revive the 2015 nuclear deal.

The UN nuclear watchdog on Wednesday reported that Iran has again boosted its stock of highly enriched uranium, just days before talks are set to resume seeking to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. In a report seen by AFP, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) estimated Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium at 2,489.7 kilograms -- many times in excess of the limit laid down in the 2015 agreement. The total amount now includes 113.8 kg enriched to 20 percent, up from 84.3 kg in September, and 17.7 kg enriched up to 60 percent, up from 10 kg, the report said. The document will be discussed during the IAEA's Board of Governors, scheduled for next week with diplomats preparing to restart talks in Vienna on November 29 over reviving the moribund 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers. The remaining parties to the deal -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- will join the talks while the United States will participate indirectly. Iran's acting head of mission to UN agencies in Vienna, Mohammad Reza Ghaebi, said the new report "shows that the IAEA has continued its verification and surveillance activities regarding Tehran's engagements." Quoted by Iranian media, he said that talks were ongoing to "solve some issues between the two parties" and called on IAEA member states to refrain from "making hasty or politically motivated comments". A spokesman for Iran's atomic agency told Fars news agency on Wednesday that IAEA chief Rafael Grossi would arrive in Tehran on Monday. Grossi will meet Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Iranian Atomic Energy Organization chief Mohammad Eslami on Tuesday, the spokesman added. - 'Astonishing' lack of contact - On November 12, Grossi described as "astonishing" his lack of contact with the new Iranian government of President Ebrahim Raisi. He said he had hoped to meet Iranian officials ahead of the next meeting of the IAEA's Board of Governors, scheduled for next week. During Grossi's last visit to Tehran in September, he clinched a deal on access to monitoring equipment at Iran's nuclear facilities. But days later, the IAEA complained that it was prevented from "indispensable" access to a unit at the TESA complex in the city of Karaj, near Tehran, in violation of the September deal. Iran's ambassador to the IAEA rejected the charge, however, tweeting that "equipment related to this complex are not included for servicing", referring to IAEA work on its monitoring equipment. The IAEA on Wednesday also "categorically" denied its cameras had played a part in an unclaimed June attack on the TESA complex. Tehran -- which has blamed its arch-enemy Israel -- told the agency it was investigating the possibility, the IAEA said in its report. 'Excessively invasive' The agreement that Grossi reached in September was an extension of a deal struck in February after Iran limited some of the IAEA's activities in the country. Wednesday's report warned, however, that the repeated prolongation of the agreement was "becoming a significant challenge to the Agency's ability to restore... continuity of knowledge" about Iran's nuclear activities. It warned that establishing clarity on activities in Karaj "has been widely recognised as essential in relation to a return to the JCPOA", referring to the 2015 nuclear deal. The Vienna talks later this month will discuss the possibility of reviving that agreement, which offered Tehran relief from sanctions in exchange for major curbs on its nuclear activities. The United States unilaterally pulled out of the accord in 2018 under the administration of President Donald Trump. In response, Iran began in 2019 walking back on its commitments under the nuclear deal, notably increasing its uranium enrichment. In a separate report also issued on Wednesday, the IAEA said there had been virtually no progress in resolving several questions the agency has about the previous presence of nuclear material at undeclared sites in the country. That report also noted that Grossi was "concerned by the incidences of Agency inspectors being subjected to excessively invasive physical searches by security officials at nuclear facilities" and called on Iran to "take immediate steps to rectify the situation".

Iran has again boosted uranium stockpile, IAEA reports

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has estimated that Iran's stockpile of highly enriched Uranium is at 2,489.7 kg, this exceeds the limit that was laid down in the 2015 agreement. The document will be discussed during the IAEA meeting scheduled for the next meet.

IAEA: Iran boosting stockpile of highly enriched Uranium again

The International Atomic Energy Agency has warned against Iranian expansion of uranium beyond the highly enriched threshold of 20 per cent purity.

The UN nuclear watchdog said it will ''increase the frequency and intensity of its safeguards activities'' at the Natanz uranium enrichment facility 250 km (155 miles) south of the Iranian capital Tehran.&nbsp;

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Earlier, Iran was already enriching its uranium to 60 per cent at the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP). The 20 per cent addition will push it closer to the weapons-grade category which lies at 90 per cent.

The West has slammed the enrichment process as it is irreversible. However, since this time the new activity does not involve keeping the product, it will not immediately accelerate Iran's production of uranium enriched to close to weapons-grade.

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IAEA chief Raffael Gross said he was still waiting for a "high level" discussion with Iranian officials in Tehran, as had been decided on in September.

"We agreed that there would be a high-level discussion, and this has not materialised yet," Grossi told reporters in Washington. "I hope that this will be done soon."

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The agreement between Iran and world powers to find a long-term solution to the now two-decade-old crisis over its controversial nuclear programme has been moribund since former US President Donald Trump walked out of the deal in May 2018 and imposed sweeping sanctions.

His successor Joe Biden has said he is ready to re-enter the agreement, so long as Iran meets key preconditions including full compliance with the deal whose terms it has repeatedly violated by ramping up nuclear activities since the US left the pact.

But the Vienna-based talks through intermediaries made little headway, before being interrupted by the election of hardliner Ebrahim Raisi as Iran's president and suspended for the last four months. 
&nbsp;

The International Atomic Energy Agency has warned against Iranian expansion of uranium beyond the highly enriched threshold of 20 per cent purity. The UN nuclear watchdog said it will ''increase the frequency and intensity of its safeguards activities'' at the Natanz uranium enrichment facility 250 km (155 miles) south of the Iranian capital Tehran.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has warned against Iranian expansion of uranium beyond the highly enriched threshold of 20 per cent purity. The UN nuclear watchdog said it will ''increase the frequency and intensity of its safeguards activities'' at the Natanz uranium enrichment facility 250 km (155 miles) south of the Iranian capital Tehran. Earlier, Iran was already enriching its uranium to 60 per cent at the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP). The 20 per cent addition will push it closer to the weapons-grade category which lies at 90 per cent. The West has slammed the enrichment process as it is irreversible. However, since this time the new activity does not involve keeping the product, it will not immediately accelerate Iran's production of uranium enriched to close to weapons-grade. Also read | Russia calls on US to 'be more active' to revive Iran nuclear deal IAEA chief Raffael Gross said he was still waiting for a "high level" discussion with Iranian officials in Tehran, as had been decided on in September. "We agreed that there would be a high-level discussion, and this has not materialised yet," Grossi told reporters in Washington. "I hope that this will be done soon." Also read | Exclusive: India has more potential than China for ties with Iran: Former Iranian prez Mahmoud Ahmadinejad The agreement between Iran and world powers to find a long-term solution to the now two-decade-old crisis over its controversial nuclear programme has been moribund since former US President Donald Trump walked out of the deal in May 2018 and imposed sweeping sanctions. His successor Joe Biden has said he is ready to re-enter the agreement, so long as Iran meets key preconditions including full compliance with the deal whose terms it has repeatedly violated by ramping up nuclear activities since the US left the pact. But the Vienna-based talks through intermediaries made little headway, before being interrupted by the election of hardliner Ebrahim Raisi as Iran's president and suspended for the last four months.

'Dangerously close to weapons-grade': IAEA warns against Iranian expansion of uranium

The European Union and Iran officials are set to meet in Brussels this week for talks on restarting negotiations over Iran’s nuclear deal. This comes after International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that Iran is once again expanding its Uranium enrichment program beyond the allowed limit.

Iran, EU to hold nuclear talks in Brussels this week

The chief of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—the UN’s nuclear watchdog—has warned that the nuclear submarine deal signed between Australia, US and UK could potentially spark off another race for nuclear submarines, suggesting that “other countries might follow Australia’s example”.

During a visit to Washington, Rafael Grossi, the director general of the IAEA, said he had sent a special team to look into the safety and legal implications of the AUKUS partnership announced last month, in which the US and UK will help Australia build a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, reports the Guardian.

“We have to have specific agreements to make sure that whatever they receive technology-wise or material-wise, is under safeguards,” Grossi was quoted as saying on Tuesday.

“There has to be a specific arrangement with the IAEA. Now we have to dot the Is and cross the Ts, which has never been done before, and it’s a very, very demanding process,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-foreign-minister-lavrov-slams-quad-aukus-417837">Russia's foreign minister Lavrov slams Quad, AUKUS</a>

Grossi said it “cannot be excluded” that other countries would use the AUKUS precedent to pursue their own nuclear submarine plans.

According to the Guardian, Canada and South Korea are contemplating building nuclear-powered submarines, which can stay underwater longer and are quieter than their conventional counterparts. Brazil too has an ongoing nuclear submarine project.

Watch

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Grossi said one of the key factors that is hindering other nations to emulate Australia was the technical challenges in building a nuclear-propelled submarine.

“To have a nuclear reactor in a submarine in a vessel operating safely is a very difficult thing to do,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-aukus-submarine-dispute-india-and-france-pledge-to-act-jointly-in-indo-pacific-region-414776">After Aukus submarine dispute, India and France pledge to act jointly in Indo-Pacific region</a>

The IAEA director general said the US and the UK need ensure that the nuclear material and technology was transferred to Australia in a safe way that did not raise risks of nuclear weapon proliferation.

He said the issue had been raised in his talks with US secretary of state Antony Blinken in Washington this week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/biden-you-should-be-aware-that-your-submarine-deal-has-costs-417409">Biden, you should be aware that your submarine deal has costs</a>

“I think he’s fully aware of the implications, and we are going to have an engagement, formal engagement, soon in a tripartite way or otherwise,” Grossi said. “I already set up a taskforce within the inspectorate, composed of very experienced safeguards inspectors and legal experts to look into this.”

The AUKUS pact will also focus on military capability, an sharing of cyber capabilities and other undersea technologies.

The AUKUS is being seen as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence in the South China Sea.

China has slammed the move saying the pact “seriously undermines regional peace and intensifies the arms race.”&nbsp;

The AUKUS deal also spurned France as it forced Australia to cancel a $37bn deal with a French company building diesel-powered submarines.

France was also irked with the fact that despite being a traditional Western ally, it found out about the new pact only a few hours before the public announcement.

(With inputs from agencies)

The chief of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—the UN’s nuclear watchdog—has warned that the nuclear submarine deal signed between Australia, US and UK could potentially spark off another race for nuclear submarines, suggesting that “other countries might follow Australia’s example”.

The chief of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—the UN’s nuclear watchdog—has warned that the nuclear submarine deal signed between Australia, US and UK could potentially spark off another race for nuclear submarines, suggesting that “other countries might follow Australia’s example”. During a visit to Washington, Rafael Grossi, the director general of the IAEA, said he had sent a special team to look into the safety and legal implications of the AUKUS partnership announced last month, in which the US and UK will help Australia build a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, reports the Guardian. “We have to have specific agreements to make sure that whatever they receive technology-wise or material-wise, is under safeguards,” Grossi was quoted as saying on Tuesday. “There has to be a specific arrangement with the IAEA. Now we have to dot the Is and cross the Ts, which has never been done before, and it’s a very, very demanding process,” he added. Also read | Russia's foreign minister Lavrov slams Quad, AUKUS Grossi said it “cannot be excluded” that other countries would use the AUKUS precedent to pursue their own nuclear submarine plans. According to the Guardian, Canada and South Korea are contemplating building nuclear-powered submarines, which can stay underwater longer and are quieter than their conventional counterparts. Brazil too has an ongoing nuclear submarine project. Watch Grossi said one of the key factors that is hindering other nations to emulate Australia was the technical challenges in building a nuclear-propelled submarine. “To have a nuclear reactor in a submarine in a vessel operating safely is a very difficult thing to do,” he said. Also read | After Aukus submarine dispute, India and France pledge to act jointly in Indo-Pacific region The IAEA director general said the US and the UK need ensure that the nuclear material and technology was transferred to Australia in a safe way that did not raise risks of nuclear weapon proliferation. He said the issue had been raised in his talks with US secretary of state Antony Blinken in Washington this week. Also read | Biden, you should be aware that your submarine deal has costs “I think he’s fully aware of the implications, and we are going to have an engagement, formal engagement, soon in a tripartite way or otherwise,” Grossi said. “I already set up a taskforce within the inspectorate, composed of very experienced safeguards inspectors and legal experts to look into this.” The AUKUS pact will also focus on military capability, an sharing of cyber capabilities and other undersea technologies. The AUKUS is being seen as a counterbalance to China’s growing influence in the South China Sea. China has slammed the move saying the pact “seriously undermines regional peace and intensifies the arms race.” The AUKUS deal also spurned France as it forced Australia to cancel a $37bn deal with a French company building diesel-powered submarines. France was also irked with the fact that despite being a traditional Western ally, it found out about the new pact only a few hours before the public announcement. (With inputs from agencies)

AUKUS deal may spark off race to acquire nuclear submarines, warns IAEA chief

Iran agreed to allow the UN nuclear watchdog to install new memory cards into surveillance cameras at its sensitive nuclear sites. The announcement was made by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) after a meeting with the director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iran allows IAEA to service nuclear monitoring cameras after talks

Averting a diplomatic showdown, Iran on Sunday agreed to allow UN nuclear watchdog to install new memory cards into surveillance cameras at its sensitive nuclear sites.

The announcement was made by Mohammad Eslami of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) after a meeting with the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, in Tehran.

The announcement is likely to buy more time for Iran ahead of the IAEA board meeting this week where the Western powers had been arguing for Tehran to be censured over its lack of cooperation with international inspectors.&nbsp; Eslami said Iran would take part in that meeting and its negotiations with the IAEA would continue there.

“We agreed over the replacement of the memory cards of the agency’s cameras,” Mohammad Eslami, who heads the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), was quoted as saying by Iranian news agencies.

“IAEA’s inspectors are permitted to service the identified equipment and replace their storage media which will be kept under the joint IAEA and AEOI seals in the Islamic Republic of Iran," the nuclear bodies said in a joint statement.

“I am glad to say that today, (we) were able to have a very constructive result, which has to do with the continuity of the operation of the agency’s equipment here,” Grossi said.

It “is indispensable for us to provide the necessary guarantee and information to the IAEA and to the world that everything is in order.”

Iran and the world powers agreed in 2015 to the nuclear deal, which saw Tehran drastically limit its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

In 2018, then-president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the accord, raising tensions across the wider Middle East and sparking a series of attacks and incidents.

After taking power, President Joe Biden said he’s willing to re-enter the accord, but so far, indirect talks have yet to see success.

(With inputs from agencies)

Averting a diplomatic showdown, Iran on Sunday agreed to allow UN nuclear watchdog to install new memory cards into surveillance cameras at its sensitive nuclear sites.

Averting a diplomatic showdown, Iran on Sunday agreed to allow UN nuclear watchdog to install new memory cards into surveillance cameras at its sensitive nuclear sites. The announcement was made by Mohammad Eslami of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) after a meeting with the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, in Tehran. The announcement is likely to buy more time for Iran ahead of the IAEA board meeting this week where the Western powers had been arguing for Tehran to be censured over its lack of cooperation with international inspectors. Eslami said Iran would take part in that meeting and its negotiations with the IAEA would continue there. “We agreed over the replacement of the memory cards of the agency’s cameras,” Mohammad Eslami, who heads the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), was quoted as saying by Iranian news agencies. “IAEA’s inspectors are permitted to service the identified equipment and replace their storage media which will be kept under the joint IAEA and AEOI seals in the Islamic Republic of Iran," the nuclear bodies said in a joint statement. “I am glad to say that today, (we) were able to have a very constructive result, which has to do with the continuity of the operation of the agency’s equipment here,” Grossi said. It “is indispensable for us to provide the necessary guarantee and information to the IAEA and to the world that everything is in order.” Iran and the world powers agreed in 2015 to the nuclear deal, which saw Tehran drastically limit its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. In 2018, then-president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the accord, raising tensions across the wider Middle East and sparking a series of attacks and incidents. After taking power, President Joe Biden said he’s willing to re-enter the accord, but so far, indirect talks have yet to see success. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran reaches deal with IAEA, allows upgradation of surveillance cameras at nuclear sites

The chief of the UN's nuclear watchdog was in Iran Sunday for talks on the nuclear dispute, days after the IAEA criticised Tehran for a lack of cooperation.

Rafael Grossi, who arrived in Tehran the previous evening, was to meet Iran's vice president Mohammad Eslami, who also heads the country's nuclear agency, official sources said.

Grossi's visit comes as talks remain locked in Vienna on saving Tehran's 2015 deal with major powers that promised it sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear programme.

The landmark deal was torpedoed in 2018 by former US president Donald Trump's unilateral decision to withdraw the United States from it and impose a punishing sanctions regime.

Iran has since stepped away from many of its commitments, but the administration of US President Joe Biden has advocated a return to diplomacy to save the agreement.

A point of contention this year has been limits Iran has imposed on the IAEA's ability to monitor various of its nuclear facilities.

It has refused to provide real-time footage from cameras and other surveillance tools that the UN agency has installed in these locations.

Under a compromise deal, the monitoring equipment remains in the agency's custody but the data is in Iran's possession, and must not be erased as long as the arrangement remains in force.&nbsp;

Initially agreed for three months, the compromise was extended by another month and then expired on June 24.

The IAEA has since been urging Tehran to inform it of its intentions.

In its statement last Tuesday, the IAEA said its "verification and monitoring activities have been seriously undermined" by Tehran's actions.

It also said that Iran had boosted its stocks of uranium enriched above the levels allowed in the 2015 deal formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Iran's ultraconservative new President Ebrahim Raisi said Wednesday that his country was "transparent" about its nuclear activities.

The state-run Iran newspaper said the two sides would discuss Sunday "the temporary arrangement... on the supervision of IAEA inspectors and the contents of IAEA surveillance cameras installed in Iranian nuclear centres".

Grossi -- on his second trip to Iran this year -- was expected to hold a press conference on his return to Vienna airport around 8:30 pm (18:30 GMT).

The chief of the UN's nuclear watchdog was in Iran Sunday for talks on the nuclear dispute, days after the IAEA criticised Tehran for a lack of cooperation. Rafael Grossi, who arrived in Tehran the previous evening, was to meet Iran's vice president Mohammad Eslami, who also heads the country's nuclear agency, official sources said.

The chief of the UN's nuclear watchdog was in Iran Sunday for talks on the nuclear dispute, days after the IAEA criticised Tehran for a lack of cooperation. Rafael Grossi, who arrived in Tehran the previous evening, was to meet Iran's vice president Mohammad Eslami, who also heads the country's nuclear agency, official sources said. Grossi's visit comes as talks remain locked in Vienna on saving Tehran's 2015 deal with major powers that promised it sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. The landmark deal was torpedoed in 2018 by former US president Donald Trump's unilateral decision to withdraw the United States from it and impose a punishing sanctions regime. Iran has since stepped away from many of its commitments, but the administration of US President Joe Biden has advocated a return to diplomacy to save the agreement. A point of contention this year has been limits Iran has imposed on the IAEA's ability to monitor various of its nuclear facilities. It has refused to provide real-time footage from cameras and other surveillance tools that the UN agency has installed in these locations. Under a compromise deal, the monitoring equipment remains in the agency's custody but the data is in Iran's possession, and must not be erased as long as the arrangement remains in force. Initially agreed for three months, the compromise was extended by another month and then expired on June 24. The IAEA has since been urging Tehran to inform it of its intentions. In its statement last Tuesday, the IAEA said its "verification and monitoring activities have been seriously undermined" by Tehran's actions. It also said that Iran had boosted its stocks of uranium enriched above the levels allowed in the 2015 deal formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Iran's ultraconservative new President Ebrahim Raisi said Wednesday that his country was "transparent" about its nuclear activities. The state-run Iran newspaper said the two sides would discuss Sunday "the temporary arrangement... on the supervision of IAEA inspectors and the contents of IAEA surveillance cameras installed in Iranian nuclear centres". Grossi -- on his second trip to Iran this year -- was expected to hold a press conference on his return to Vienna airport around 8:30 pm (18:30 GMT).

IAEA chief in Iran for talks on nuclear dispute

UN nuclear watchdog&nbsp;chief&nbsp;Rafael Grossi will fly to Tehran this weekend for&nbsp;talks&nbsp;that may ease a standoff between&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the&nbsp;West&nbsp;just as it threatens to escalate and scupper negotiations on reviving the&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;nuclear deal.

Three diplomats who follow the International Atomic Energy Agency closely told Reuters that Grossi's trip&nbsp;before&nbsp;next week's meeting of the&nbsp;IAEA's 35-nation Board of Governors was confirmed. Two said he would meet the new head of the Atomic Energy Organization of&nbsp;Iran, Mohammad Eslami, on Sunday.

The&nbsp;IAEA&nbsp;and&nbsp;Iran's envoy to the agency later confirmed the trip and the meeting.

"Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi will meet with Vice-President of the Islamic Republic of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and Head of the AEOI, Mohammad Eslami, in Tehran on Sunday," the&nbsp;IAEA&nbsp;said, adding that Grossi was expected to hold a news conference at Vienna airport around 8:30 pm on Sunday.

The&nbsp;IAEA&nbsp;informed member states this week that there had been no progress on two central issues: explaining uranium traces found at several old, undeclared sites and getting urgent access to some monitoring equipment so the agency can continue to keep track of parts of&nbsp;Iran's nuclear programme as provided for by the 2015 deal.

Separate, indirect&nbsp;talks&nbsp;between the United States and&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;on both returning to compliance with the deal have been halted since June. Washington and its European allies have been urging hardline President Ebrahim Raisi's administration, which took office in August, to return to the&nbsp;talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/even-as-houthi-attacks-continue-us-removes-missile-defences-in-saudi-arabia-412347">Also read |&nbsp;Even as Houthi attacks continue, US removes missile defences in Saudi Arabia</a>

Under the 2015 deal between&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and major powers, Tehran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.

Sanctions

President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal in 2018, re-introducing painful economic sanctions.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;responded as of 2019 by breaching many of the deal's core restrictions, like enriching uranium to a higher purity, closer to that suitable for use in nuclear weapons.

Western powers must decide whether to push for a resolution criticising&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and raising pressure on it for stonewalling the&nbsp;IAEA&nbsp;at next week's meeting of the agency's 35-nation Board of Governors. A resolution could jeopardise the resumption of&nbsp;talks&nbsp;on the deal as Tehran bristles at such moves.

Iran's Foreign Ministry warned against any such resolution.

"I hope the Board of Governors, under the influence of certain pressures, will not take any action that would destroy the process of customary cooperation between&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the agency," said spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh, the Fars news agency reported.

The European parties to the 2015 deal&nbsp;Britain, France and Germany held a meeting with the United States in Paris on Friday to discuss how to react at the&nbsp;IAEA&nbsp;board and to review options if&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;continues to stall on returning to negotiations. But diplomats said no decisions had been taken as of yet.

Countries on the&nbsp;IAEA&nbsp;Board of Governors will be watching Grossi's visit to see whether&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;yields either on granting access to the monitoring equipment to service it or offers the prospect of answers on the uranium particles found at the undeclared former sites.

Moves on those issues would make it less likely that a resolution is brought against&nbsp;Iran, diplomats say.

UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi will fly to Tehran this weekend for talks that may ease a standoff between Iran and the West just as it threatens to escalate and scupper negotiations on reviving the Iran nuclear deal.

UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi will fly to Tehran this weekend for talks that may ease a standoff between Iran and the West just as it threatens to escalate and scupper negotiations on reviving the Iran nuclear deal. Three diplomats who follow the International Atomic Energy Agency closely told Reuters that Grossi's trip before next week's meeting of the IAEA's 35-nation Board of Governors was confirmed. Two said he would meet the new head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Mohammad Eslami, on Sunday. The IAEA and Iran's envoy to the agency later confirmed the trip and the meeting. "Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi will meet with Vice-President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Head of the AEOI, Mohammad Eslami, in Tehran on Sunday," the IAEA said, adding that Grossi was expected to hold a news conference at Vienna airport around 8:30 pm on Sunday. The IAEA informed member states this week that there had been no progress on two central issues: explaining uranium traces found at several old, undeclared sites and getting urgent access to some monitoring equipment so the agency can continue to keep track of parts of Iran's nuclear programme as provided for by the 2015 deal. Separate, indirect talks between the United States and Iran on both returning to compliance with the deal have been halted since June. Washington and its European allies have been urging hardline President Ebrahim Raisi's administration, which took office in August, to return to the talks. Also read | Even as Houthi attacks continue, US removes missile defences in Saudi Arabia Under the 2015 deal between Iran and major powers, Tehran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. Sanctions President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal in 2018, re-introducing painful economic sanctions. Iran responded as of 2019 by breaching many of the deal's core restrictions, like enriching uranium to a higher purity, closer to that suitable for use in nuclear weapons. Western powers must decide whether to push for a resolution criticising Iran and raising pressure on it for stonewalling the IAEA at next week's meeting of the agency's 35-nation Board of Governors. A resolution could jeopardise the resumption of talks on the deal as Tehran bristles at such moves. Iran's Foreign Ministry warned against any such resolution. "I hope the Board of Governors, under the influence of certain pressures, will not take any action that would destroy the process of customary cooperation between Iran and the agency," said spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh, the Fars news agency reported. The European parties to the 2015 deal Britain, France and Germany held a meeting with the United States in Paris on Friday to discuss how to react at the IAEA board and to review options if Iran continues to stall on returning to negotiations. But diplomats said no decisions had been taken as of yet. Countries on the IAEA Board of Governors will be watching Grossi's visit to see whether Iran yields either on granting access to the monitoring equipment to service it or offers the prospect of answers on the uranium particles found at the undeclared former sites. Moves on those issues would make it less likely that a resolution is brought against Iran, diplomats say.

Iran invites IAEA chief for talks before showdown with West

The UN atomic agency has said that North Korea appears to have restarted its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor, a possible sign that Pyongyang is expanding its banned weapons program.

IAEA: North Korea seems to have restarted nuclear reactor

The speaker of Iran's parliament said on Sunday, Tehran will never hand over images from inside of some Iranian nuclear sites to the UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog as a monitoring agreement with the agency had expired, Iranian state media reported. 
 
"The agreement has expired...any of the information recorded will never be given to the International Atomic Energy Agency and the data and images will remain in the possession of Iran," said Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. 
 
The IAEA and Tehran struck the three-month monitoring agreement in February to cushion the blow of Iran reducing its cooperation with the agency, and it allowed monitoring of some activities that would otherwise have been axed to continue. The agreement was later extended for a month until June 24.

Earlier, the UN nuclear watchdog demanded an immediate reply from Iran on whether it would extend a monitoring agreement that expired overnight, prompting an Iranian envoy to respond that Tehran was under no obligation to provide an answer.

The agreement continued the International Atomic Energy Agency's collection of data on some of Tehran's activities, cushioning the blow of Iran's decision in February to reduce cooperation with the agency.

"An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors.

Grossi wrote to Iran last week 'to understand Iran's position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data', the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not indicated if it intended to maintain the arrangement, it said.

Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, said 'Iran was not required to comply' with the IAEA head's request, Iran's semi-official news agency Tasnim reported.

Washington believes Tehran should engage the IAEA without further delay and a failure to do so would contradict Iran's stated desire for both to resume compliance with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal as soon as possible, said a US State Department official.

"Iran should engage the IAEA without further delay to ensure appropriate measures remain in place so the IAEA's continuity of knowledge on JCPOA monitoring can be readily re-established," the US official said on condition of anonymity.

Iran and the United States have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers that imposed restrictions on Tehran's nuclear activities in exchange for lifting international sanctions.

The Vienna talks, which began in April, are now in a pause that had been expected to last until early July, but failure to extend the monitoring accord could throw those negotiations into disarray.

"Regarding the IAEA, this remains a serious concern," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking before Grossi updated the board, told a news conference in Paris alongside his French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian. "The concern has been communicated to Iran and needs to be resolved."

The speaker of Iran's parliament said on Sunday, Tehran will never hand over images from inside of some Iranian nuclear sites to the UN nuclear watchdog as a monitoring agreement with the agency had expired, Iranian state media reported.

The speaker of Iran's parliament said on Sunday, Tehran will never hand over images from inside of some Iranian nuclear sites to the UN nuclear watchdog as a monitoring agreement with the agency had expired, Iranian state media reported. "The agreement has expired...any of the information recorded will never be given to the International Atomic Energy Agency and the data and images will remain in the possession of Iran," said Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. The IAEA and Tehran struck the three-month monitoring agreement in February to cushion the blow of Iran reducing its cooperation with the agency, and it allowed monitoring of some activities that would otherwise have been axed to continue. The agreement was later extended for a month until June 24. Earlier, the UN nuclear watchdog demanded an immediate reply from Iran on whether it would extend a monitoring agreement that expired overnight, prompting an Iranian envoy to respond that Tehran was under no obligation to provide an answer. The agreement continued the International Atomic Energy Agency's collection of data on some of Tehran's activities, cushioning the blow of Iran's decision in February to reduce cooperation with the agency. "An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors. Grossi wrote to Iran last week 'to understand Iran's position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data', the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not indicated if it intended to maintain the arrangement, it said. Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, said 'Iran was not required to comply' with the IAEA head's request, Iran's semi-official news agency Tasnim reported. Washington believes Tehran should engage the IAEA without further delay and a failure to do so would contradict Iran's stated desire for both to resume compliance with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal as soon as possible, said a US State Department official. "Iran should engage the IAEA without further delay to ensure appropriate measures remain in place so the IAEA's continuity of knowledge on JCPOA monitoring can be readily re-established," the US official said on condition of anonymity. Iran and the United States have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers that imposed restrictions on Tehran's nuclear activities in exchange for lifting international sanctions. The Vienna talks, which began in April, are now in a pause that had been expected to last until early July, but failure to extend the monitoring accord could throw those negotiations into disarray. "Regarding the IAEA, this remains a serious concern," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking before Grossi updated the board, told a news conference in Paris alongside his French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian. "The concern has been communicated to Iran and needs to be resolved."

Iran says nuclear site images won't be given to IAEA as deal has expired

The UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog on Friday demanded an immediate reply from Iran on whether it would extend a monitoring agreement that expired overnight, prompting an Iranian envoy to respond that Tehran was under no obligation to provide an answer. 
 
The agreement continued the International Atomic Energy Agency's collection of data on some of Tehran's activities, cushioning the blow of Iran's decision in February to reduce cooperation with the agency. 
 
"An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors. 
 
Grossi wrote to Iran last week 'to understand Iran's position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data', the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not indicated if it intended to maintain the arrangement, it said. 
 
Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, said 'Iran was not required to comply' with the IAEA head's request, Iran's semi-official news agency Tasnim reported. 
 
Washington believes Tehran should engage the IAEA without further delay and a failure to do so would contradict Iran's stated desire for both to resume compliance with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal as soon as possible, said a US&nbsp;State Department official. 
 
"Iran should engage the IAEA without further delay to ensure appropriate measures remain in place so the IAEA's continuity of knowledge on JCPOA monitoring can be readily re-established," the US&nbsp;official said on condition of anonymity. 
 
Iran and the United States have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers that imposed restrictions on Tehran's nuclear activities in exchange for lifting international sanctions. 
 
The Vienna talks, which began in April, are now in a pause that had been expected to last until early July, but failure to extend the monitoring accord could throw those negotiations into disarray. 
 
"Regarding the IAEA, this remains a serious concern," US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking before Grossi updated the board, told a news conference in Paris alongside his French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian. "The concern has been communicated to Iran and needs to be resolved." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The UN nuclear watchdog on Friday demanded an immediate reply from Iran on whether it would extend a monitoring agreement that expired overnight, prompting an Iranian envoy to respond that Tehran was under no obligation to provide an answer.

The UN nuclear watchdog on Friday demanded an immediate reply from Iran on whether it would extend a monitoring agreement that expired overnight, prompting an Iranian envoy to respond that Tehran was under no obligation to provide an answer. The agreement continued the International Atomic Energy Agency's collection of data on some of Tehran's activities, cushioning the blow of Iran's decision in February to reduce cooperation with the agency. "An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors. Grossi wrote to Iran last week 'to understand Iran's position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data', the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not indicated if it intended to maintain the arrangement, it said. Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, said 'Iran was not required to comply' with the IAEA head's request, Iran's semi-official news agency Tasnim reported. Washington believes Tehran should engage the IAEA without further delay and a failure to do so would contradict Iran's stated desire for both to resume compliance with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal as soon as possible, said a US State Department official. "Iran should engage the IAEA without further delay to ensure appropriate measures remain in place so the IAEA's continuity of knowledge on JCPOA monitoring can be readily re-established," the US official said on condition of anonymity. Iran and the United States have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers that imposed restrictions on Tehran's nuclear activities in exchange for lifting international sanctions. The Vienna talks, which began in April, are now in a pause that had been expected to last until early July, but failure to extend the monitoring accord could throw those negotiations into disarray. "Regarding the IAEA, this remains a serious concern," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking before Grossi updated the board, told a news conference in Paris alongside his French counterpart, Jean-Yves Le Drian. "The concern has been communicated to Iran and needs to be resolved." (With inputs from agencies)

IAEA demands Iran's answer on monitoring, Tehran says not obliged to reply

Iran has not responded to International Atomic Energy Agency over extending a monitoring agreement that expired overnight. The international nuclear watchdog said that an "immediate response from Iran was needed. The agreement allows IAEA to collect data on Iran's activities.

The matter has become all the more important after USA said not extending the monitoring agreement would hamper the efforts of reviving Iran nuclear deal struck in 2015.

"An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors that was also seen by Reuters.

Grossi wrote to Iran last week "to understand Iran`s position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data", the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not replied or indicated whether it intends to maintain the current arrangement, it said.

Iran and the US have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks are currently adjourned and no date for resumption has been finalised yet.

The United States abandoned the deal under then-President Donald Trump in 2018 and Iran responded by violating many of its restrictions. President Joe Biden`s administration wants to revive the accord, but Tehran and Washington have yet to agree which side should take what steps, and when.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran has not responded to International Atomic Energy Agency over extending a monitoring agreement that expired overnight. The international nuclear watchdog said that an "immediate response from Iran was needed.

Iran has not responded to International Atomic Energy Agency over extending a monitoring agreement that expired overnight. The international nuclear watchdog said that an "immediate response from Iran was needed. The agreement allows IAEA to collect data on Iran's activities. The matter has become all the more important after USA said not extending the monitoring agreement would hamper the efforts of reviving Iran nuclear deal struck in 2015. "An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors that was also seen by Reuters. Grossi wrote to Iran last week "to understand Iran`s position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data", the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not replied or indicated whether it intends to maintain the current arrangement, it said. Iran and the US have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks are currently adjourned and no date for resumption has been finalised yet. The United States abandoned the deal under then-President Donald Trump in 2018 and Iran responded by violating many of its restrictions. President Joe Biden`s administration wants to revive the accord, but Tehran and Washington have yet to agree which side should take what steps, and when. (With inputs from agencies)

IAEA demands answer from Iran on monitoring agreement deal

Reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear accord will have to await the formation of a new Iranian government, the head of the UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog said in remarks published on Wednesday, adding a deal needed political will from all parties. 
 
"Everyone knows that, at this point, it will be necessary to wait for the new Iranian government," Rafael Grossi said in an interview with Italian daily La Repubblica, in reply to a question about what stage negotiations on the deal were at. 
 
Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), appeared to be referring to Iran's presidential elections, due on Friday. 
 
Iran's new president is expected to name his cabinet by mid-August. The term of current President Hassan Rouhani ends on August&nbsp;3, a government spokesman said. 
 
The sixth round of talks to revive the deal resumed in Vienna on Saturday between Iran and world powers. 
 
The IAEA does not take any direct part in the negotiations but has been called on to verify them and continue inspections in the country. 
 
"The discussions that have been going on for weeks have dealt with very complex and delicate technical questions, but what is needed is the political will of the parties," Grossi said.

Reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear accord will have to await the formation of a new Iranian government, the head of the UN nuclear watchdog said in remarks published on Wednesday, adding a deal needed political will from all parties.

Reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear accord will have to await the formation of a new Iranian government, the head of the UN nuclear watchdog said in remarks published on Wednesday, adding a deal needed political will from all parties. "Everyone knows that, at this point, it will be necessary to wait for the new Iranian government," Rafael Grossi said in an interview with Italian daily La Repubblica, in reply to a question about what stage negotiations on the deal were at. Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), appeared to be referring to Iran's presidential elections, due on Friday. Iran's new president is expected to name his cabinet by mid-August. The term of current President Hassan Rouhani ends on August 3, a government spokesman said. The sixth round of talks to revive the deal resumed in Vienna on Saturday between Iran and world powers. The IAEA does not take any direct part in the negotiations but has been called on to verify them and continue inspections in the country. "The discussions that have been going on for weeks have dealt with very complex and delicate technical questions, but what is needed is the political will of the parties," Grossi said.

Nuclear deal must await new Iran govt: IAEA executive tells paper

Iran on Thursday accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of taking a "counterproductive approach" after the head of the agency said Iran hadn't clarified queries over possible undeclared nuclear activity.

Last week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) voiced concern in a report to its members that Iran had not clarified the long-outstanding queries.

The regular report has come at a time when world powers are holding talks with Iran to bring the nuclear deal back on track.

The 2015 landmark accord has been hanging by a thread since the US left it in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, leading to Tehran to step up its nuclear activities long curtailed by the deal.

Iran Ambassador Kazem Gharib Abadi told the IAEA's board of governors' meeting that the latest agency report is "not credible", calling it "deeply disappointing".&nbsp;

Iran insists it is cooperating with the IAEA as it seeks clarity on several undeclared Iranian sites where nuclear activity may have taken place, mostly in the early 2000s.

"The secretariat has taken a counterproductive approach at the expense of its own credibility," he said, warning this "could turn into an obstacle for future good-will interactions between the two sides".

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told reporters on Monday that it was "becoming increasingly difficult" to extend a temporary inspections arrangement with Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Thursday accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of taking a "counterproductive approach" after the head of the agency said Iran hadn't clarified queries over possible undeclared nuclear activity.

Iran on Thursday accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of taking a "counterproductive approach" after the head of the agency said Iran hadn't clarified queries over possible undeclared nuclear activity. Last week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) voiced concern in a report to its members that Iran had not clarified the long-outstanding queries. The regular report has come at a time when world powers are holding talks with Iran to bring the nuclear deal back on track. The 2015 landmark accord has been hanging by a thread since the US left it in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, leading to Tehran to step up its nuclear activities long curtailed by the deal. Iran Ambassador Kazem Gharib Abadi told the IAEA's board of governors' meeting that the latest agency report is "not credible", calling it "deeply disappointing". Iran insists it is cooperating with the IAEA as it seeks clarity on several undeclared Iranian sites where nuclear activity may have taken place, mostly in the early 2000s. "The secretariat has taken a counterproductive approach at the expense of its own credibility," he said, warning this "could turn into an obstacle for future good-will interactions between the two sides". IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told reporters on Monday that it was "becoming increasingly difficult" to extend a temporary inspections arrangement with Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran calls IAEA's report 'counterproductive' amid undeclared nuclear activity row

The International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA) said on Monday that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-talks-with-saudi-arabia-ongoing-in-good-atmosphere-388608">Iran </a>had enriched uranium stockpile 16 times over the deal limit even as the country's foreign ministry said it had made "significant" progress during the Vienna talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-to-continue-talks-to-revive-nuclear-deal-386198/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-uranium-enrichment-now-at-levels-of-countries-making-bombs-iaea-chief-387711"> IAEA</a> said it was "concerned" over Iran's undeclared&nbsp;sites where nuclear activity may have taken place despite queries and discussions between the two sides.

The United States under the former Trump administration had walked out of the 2015 nuclear pact with Iran three years ago.

The Iranian government since then had vowed to ramp up its nuclear programme, however, the Biden administration has said it will return to the pact if Iran complies with the uranium enrichment limits.

According to the 2015 nuclear pact, Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons. Iran had earlier allowed the UN nuclear body to carry on monitoring and verification activities in the country.

However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken while expressing doubts about Iran had said it was unclear whether the country was "ready and willing" to take steps to return to compliance under the nuclear deal.

Iran in turn said&nbsp;talks in Vienna depended on "political decision" by the Biden administration even as the Iranian foreign ministry asserted that an agreement was "within reach".

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif hit back at Blinken saying: "Trump's legacy is past its expiration date. Drop it," referring to the harsh sanctions imposed by former President Trump in the last few years.&nbsp;

In a report earlier, IAEA had said Iran has enriched uranium to up to 63 per cent purity at the Natanz enrichment plant.

(With Agency inputs)

The International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA) said on Monday that Iran had enriched uranium stockpile 16 times over the deal limit even as the country's foreign ministry said it had made "significant" progress during the Vienna talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal.

The International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA) said on Monday that Iran had enriched uranium stockpile 16 times over the deal limit even as the country's foreign ministry said it had made "significant" progress during the Vienna talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal. Watch: The IAEA said it was "concerned" over Iran's undeclared sites where nuclear activity may have taken place despite queries and discussions between the two sides. The United States under the former Trump administration had walked out of the 2015 nuclear pact with Iran three years ago. The Iranian government since then had vowed to ramp up its nuclear programme, however, the Biden administration has said it will return to the pact if Iran complies with the uranium enrichment limits. According to the 2015 nuclear pact, Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons. Iran had earlier allowed the UN nuclear body to carry on monitoring and verification activities in the country. However, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken while expressing doubts about Iran had said it was unclear whether the country was "ready and willing" to take steps to return to compliance under the nuclear deal. Iran in turn said talks in Vienna depended on "political decision" by the Biden administration even as the Iranian foreign ministry asserted that an agreement was "within reach". Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif hit back at Blinken saying: "Trump's legacy is past its expiration date. Drop it," referring to the harsh sanctions imposed by former President Trump in the last few years. In a report earlier, IAEA had said Iran has enriched uranium to up to 63 per cent purity at the Natanz enrichment plant. (With Agency inputs)

IAEA 'concerned' as Iran's enriched uranium stockpile reaches 16 times over deal limit

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