Russian Envoy Addresses IAEA Board on UNSC Resolution 2231: Key Insights and Implications
In a recent address at the IAEA Board of Governors, Mikhail Ulyanov, Russia’s Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna, highlighted ongoing challenges surrounding the Iranian nuclear program. His speech, delivered on September 10, underscores the implications of geopolitical tensions on nuclear verification activities in Iran.
Ulyanov’s remarks emphasize that the IAEA’s verification efforts in Iran have been significantly obstructed by what he termed as “planned, unprovoked and full-scale aggression” from Israel and the United States. He noted a lack of critical information in the Director General’s report regarding the destruction of Iran’s nuclear facilities, which have been impacted by US-Israeli strikes. The absence of this data makes it difficult for the international community to evaluate the damage and the necessary remediation efforts.
Furthermore, Ulyanov shared Russia’s perspective on the current state of the Iranian nuclear program:
- The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) has been a significant diplomatic achievement, demonstrating the potential for resolving complex international issues through political dialogue.
- In its initial years, the JCPOA was successfully implemented, showcasing the commitment of all involved parties and the support of the international community.
- Iran adhered to the Additional Protocol to the Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA and cooperated fully with Agency inspectors, limiting its nuclear activities as stipulated by the JCPOA.
Ulyanov pointed out the contradictory demands from Western nations, particularly the E3 (France, Germany, and the UK), who are now asking Iran to forfeit its legal rights under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to enrich uranium. He argued that the failure to achieve the JCPOA’s objectives results from deliberate sabotage by the US and E3, who opted for a strategy of “maximum pressure” instead of fostering trust and cooperation.
According to Ulyanov, the military actions against Iran by Israel and the US, alongside the E3’s attempts to activate the “snapback” mechanism to restore sanctions, contradict the principles of nuclear non-proliferation and international law. He stated:
“What Western countries are openly doing to Iran is nothing other than undermining the fundamental principles of international law and the nuclear non-proliferation regime.”
Ulyanov also criticized the E3 for their attempts to initiate the “snapback” mechanism outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which aims to reinstate previously lifted sanctions on Iran. He urged the international community to examine a joint letter from the Foreign Ministers of Iran, China, and Russia, which details these concerns.
He expressed disappointment with the E3’s actions, which he claims have actively contributed to the JCPOA’s disintegration. He reiterated that the E3 had failed to fulfill their obligations to lift national restrictions on the specified date and have instead supported military strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Ulyanov remarked on the damaging consequences of these actions, stating:
“All this is playing with fire, the result of which is extremely obvious – undermining stability in the Middle East, as well as directly undermining international peace and security.”
He criticized the E3’s claims of maintaining a “window for diplomacy,” questioning the feasibility of any agreements when they themselves dismantled the existing framework. Ulyanov urged the E3 to re-engage in negotiations to restore the JCPOA, emphasizing the lack of action from the European Union, which has not convened meetings of the Joint Commission despite the escalating crisis.
The Russian Federation remains committed to resolving global challenges through diplomacy. Ulyanov noted that Russia, in collaboration with China, has proposed a resolution to the UN Security Council aimed at extending Resolution 2231, providing necessary space for diplomatic efforts.
Ulyanov emphasized the unprecedented nature of the US-Israeli aggression against Iran, which poses a significant threat to the IAEA and its safeguards system. He expressed concern over a document circulated by the US that allegedly claims international law does not prohibit attacks on nuclear facilities, calling this legal nihilism deeply troubling.
He concluded by affirming that the resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue lies strictly in the diplomatic realm. The Russian Federation continues to advocate for urgent consultations among the original JCPOA participants to prevent further escalation.
Ulyanov welcomed a recent agreement between the IAEA Director General and the Iranian Foreign Minister to resume verification activities in Iran. This development, he noted, exemplifies professionalism and responsibility from both parties, particularly highlighting Iran’s commitment to its international obligations even in the face of adversity.
However, he cautioned that the full execution of this agreement remains uncertain due to the E3’s lack of interest in diplomacy and dialogue.
In summary, Ulyanov’s speech at the IAEA Board of Governors serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding the Iranian nuclear program and the pressing need for diplomatic engagement to mitigate further conflict.
