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Resist U.S. pressure, Iran tells IAEA

DUBAI: Iran has urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to remain immune to pressures from the U.S. amid expectations that the agency would release a report on Tehran’s nuclear programme later on Monday.

“The IAEA should not be influenced by foreign pressures in its decision-making regarding the Iranian nuclear file, particularly by the U.S.,” said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Hassan Qashqavi on Monday.

“We know that the pressure increases when the issues are going to be resolved. Therefore, we urge the agency to maintain its legal approach in disregard of any foreign pressures.”

Mr. Qashqavi said Tehran was ready to continue its cooperation with the IAEA. Earlier on Sunday, Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki accused Washington of “pressuring” the IAEA officials by “raising issues outside the framework about Iran’s atomic activities.” He pointed out that the IAEA has been investigating Iran’s case under a mutually agreed format. “Our cooperation with the IAEA is continuing in line with the modality plan agreed by the two parties. Today, the agency has received the answer to many ambiguities raised by some foreign sides,” said Mr. Mottaki.

The U.N. Security Council and Germany have been demanding Iran should halt uranium enrichment in return for a package of incentives. Citing its rights as a NPT signatory, Iran has refused to cease enrichment despite imposition of three rounds of sanctions. Russia on Friday said it opposed imposition of fresh sanctions. It also warned there was no military solution to the crisis.

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