The United States has expressed serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear activities at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors meeting in Vienna. Howard Solomon, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, delivered the U.S. statement on March 4, 2025, addressing agenda item six related to verification and monitoring in Iran under UN Security Council resolution 2231.
The U.S. acknowledged the efforts of the IAEA Director General and the Secretariat for their work in Iran. "We thank the Director General and the Secretariat for their continued dedication and professionalism in implementing the Agency’s critical responsibilities in Iran," Solomon stated.
Solomon highlighted alarming findings from a recent report by the Director General, emphasizing that Iran's nuclear program poses an existential threat to global security. He noted that Iran is unique as a country producing highly enriched uranium without possessing nuclear weapons. "Rather than seek to build confidence, Iran continues to accelerate its program, and deploy advanced centrifuges, without any credible civilian justification," he said.
The U.S. criticized Iran for its lack of transparency and refusal to comply with legal safeguards obligations. Solomon stressed that Iran should increase transparency, implement additional protocols, cease production of highly enriched uranium, and accept agency inspectors' designations.
A specific incident was cited where Iran de-designated inspectors after failing to declare modifications at Fordow. Inspectors found uranium particles enriched beyond 80 percent at this site. "Iran’s conduct is as blatant as it is condemnable," Solomon remarked.
Solomon concluded by stating that if Iran seeks a deal, it must halt its nuclear escalations and comply with international safeguards to assure that its nuclear program remains peaceful. The U.S. requested that the Director General's report be made public.
"I thank you, Chair," Solomon concluded his remarks at the meeting.