Iran’s Response to US Airstrikes on Nuclear Sites
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) reacted swiftly following a significant US airstrike on its nuclear facilities, where uranium enrichment is ongoing. They expressed their disapproval, with President Donald Trump being labeled as the perpetrator of this “bad” act, claiming that “the blood of a nuclear martial artist” would not go unacknowledged.
After a ceremonial invocation of Allah, the AEOI stated that the nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan were targeted by adversaries of Iran, accusing them of breaching international law, specifically the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
“This unfortunate action occurred amid the indifference and complicity of the International Atomic Energy Agency,” the organization declared. They further alleged that the US took responsibility for the attacks while being under continuous monitoring by the IAEA in accordance with the Safeguard Agreement and the NPT.
The AEOI urged the international community to condemn what they described as lawlessness and to support Iran’s legitimate rights. They reassured the “great Iranian state” that, despite adversities orchestrated by its foes and the tireless efforts of numerous dedicated scientists and experts, the advancement of their national nuclear industry would continue, even if it stems from the sacrifices made by nuclear martyrs.
They also mentioned that necessary legal actions would be prioritized to safeguard the rights of the Iranian nation. Moreover, the organization acknowledged that Iran had arguably violated its NPT obligations as per the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) observations.
The IAEA had previously condemned Iran for enriching substantial amounts of uranium to elevated levels, possibly for illicit purposes, and for concealing operations at three undeclared nuclear sites. This marked the most serious rebuke Iran had faced from the UN’s nuclear oversight agency since 2005.
In a marked contrast to the AEOI’s assertions, Iran’s regime was reportedly infuriated with the IAEA. The Foreign Ministry accused IAEA director Rafael Grossi of collaborating with Israel to instigate what they described as an “unjust war of aggression” against Tehran. They denounced Grossi for issuing a “completely biased report” on Iran’s purported non-compliance, claiming it served as a pretext for aggressive actions against Iran and for unlawful strikes on peaceful nuclear facilities.
“You have made the International Atomic Energy Agency a collaborator in this unfair war,” the Iranian officials expressed, criticizing Grossi, who they argued, was now in a position expected to salvage their controversial nuclear initiatives.
