Iran referred to UN Security Council for nuclear non-compliance

The United Nations nuclear watchdog has taken a significant step against Iran, referring the country to the UN Security Council for 'non-compliance' with its obligations under the non-proliferation treaty. This move, which has not happened in 20 years, is based on the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) concerns over a lack of information on Iran's nuclear material and the inability of IAEA inspectors to access nuclear facilities. The resolution, backed by 23 countries, was tabled by the UK, France, Germany, and the US, and was opposed by China, Russia, and Niger. Iran has condemned the decision, blaming US and Israeli strikes on its nuclear facilities for disrupting inspections. The IAEA has been unable to access Iran's nuclear facilities since a 12-day conflict in June 2025, when Israel and the US carried out strikes on the sites. The situation has escalated again with the latest war, launched by Israel and the US on February 28, which targeted uranium enrichment plants in Natanz and Fordo. Iran's deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, has written that the attacks on its facilities have disrupted the normal process of verification, and that Iran will not let IAEA inspectors visit its sites until a wider settlement is reached with the US and Israel. Iran has consistently stated that its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful purposes. The referral to the Security Council is unlikely to lead to new sanctions, as Iran's allies China and Russia have veto powers in the council.