Tehran has escalated the nuclear standoff by claiming it holds classified Israeli nuclear data and may release it soon. The move comes as European powers push for a vote at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that could reimpose UN sanctions on Iran by October.
Iran Claims Intelligence Breakthrough
On Sunday, Iran’s Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib announced that Tehran had acquired “strategic and sensitive” Israeli documents, allegedly including data on nuclear facilities. He linked the leak to the arrest of two Israeli nationals accused of spying for Iran. Despite skepticism—even within Iran—the statement appears to serve as a warning to Israel against any potential military action.
Europe Presses for UN Sanctions
France, Germany, and the UK are set to cite a damning IAEA report this week. The report reveals Iran has enriched 400kg of uranium to 60% purity—nearly weapons-grade—and has expanded its stockpile by 50% since March. The European powers aim to pass a motion at the IAEA board meeting in Vienna declaring Iran in violation of its safeguards agreement.
Read: Tensions Rise as LA Police Disperse Immigration Protesters
This would mark the first such declaration since 2005 and pave the way for UN sanctions in October under the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal. Notably, Russia and China would not be able to veto the sanctions.
Iran Warns of Retaliation
Iran has already vowed to retaliate if censured. This could include cutting off more access for UN inspectors and accelerating uranium enrichment. Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesperson for Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, noted that since the last IAEA censure, Iran has increased 60% enriched uranium production sevenfold and deployed 20 advanced centrifuge cascades.
Tense Diplomatic Landscape
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Europe against repeating “strategic mistakes,” saying any crisis would be Europe’s responsibility. Talks with the US remain stalled. President Trump has set a June 11 deadline for nuclear negotiations, but history suggests that timeline may shift. Meanwhile, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi sees potential for a deal, and Russia has offered to mediate by hosting Iran’s uranium stockpile.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates