The United States has expressed its concerns regarding Iran's nuclear activities during an extraordinary session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors. McCoy Pitt, Senior Bureau Official from the U.S. Department of State, delivered a statement addressing several issues related to Iran's nuclear program.
Pitt acknowledged the IAEA's efforts in implementing its mandate in Iran amidst a complex situation and rejected any claims that link Israel’s actions to the resolution adopted by the Board. He stated, "The Board’s action to find Iran in noncompliance with its safeguards agreement was appropriate, necessary, and long overdue."
Highlighting over two decades of U.S. concerns about Iran's uranium enrichment program, which began as part of a covert nuclear weapons initiative, Pitt emphasized that Iran's growing stockpile of highly enriched uranium poses serious proliferation risks. "There is no credible civilian justification for Iran to enrich to that level," he noted.
The U.S. reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defense under international law and stated that Israel had not violated any agreements with the IAEA or provisions of its Statute.
Pitt expressed alarm over Iranian officials' statements about limiting cooperation with the IAEA and recent announcements concerning new enrichment facilities and centrifuge upgrades at Fordow. He called these actions inconsistent with efforts to alleviate international doubts about Iran’s intentions.
"We call on Iran to fully implement its obligations under its safeguards agreement," Pitt said, urging adherence to the Non-Proliferation Treaty commitments against manufacturing or acquiring nuclear weapons.
The United States reiterated its commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon while supporting regional peace and security initiatives. Pitt urged all parties involved to avoid escalating hostilities and negotiate sincerely towards resolving international concerns about Iran's nuclear activities.
In conclusion, Pitt affirmed U.S. support for the IAEA’s ongoing verification mandate in Iran and emphasized ensuring staff safety amid heightened tensions.