From September 16-20, delegates from the various 178 nations gathered in Vienna. They had discussions on the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) efforts to promote secure and peaceful nuclear technology. Iran is the central focus of the discussion. It is the nation that signed the  Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT). Iran has a nuclear program that raises many worries because it could be the cause of the creation of atomic bombs. 

The director-general of IAEA, Rafael Grossi recently toured Ukraine. It is the nation whose nuclear power plant is under Russian control. He stressed that no nuclear facility should ever be targeted in military actions, emphasizing the serious risks this poses to safety. Grossi also said that the experience with Iran in the past was not good. The cooperation of this nation with IAEA inspectors has not been satisfactory. But the new president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian’s actions indicates a more positive willingness to engage with the International Atomic Energy Agency. This change in Iran’s history is supposed to be the best regarding Iran’s nuclear activities. It is very crucial for worldwide safety and stability. 

The developments that happened recently made the diplomatic effort regarding nuclear weapons more complicated, especially with Russia and Iran. On September 12, Russia sent a warning to NATO. According to this nation, NATO could face war if it does not stop to help Ukraine. Russian leaders also said NATO should stop its long-range missile supplies to Ukraine. This is because these missiles raise fears about Russia potentially using nuclear weapons. Furthermore, the European Union also criticized Iran for sending ballistic missiles to Russia. According to the EU, this action of Iran is a serious escalation in their military support. In response, a new sanction is applied to Iran through the US and the European allies. But it is not clear now how effective these will be. 

Additionally, North Korea revealed new uranium enrichment facilities, despite not being part of the IAEA anymore. This is concerning because North Korea is known to cooperate with Iran on military matters. Lastly, the Yemeni Houthis attacked Israel with a missile likely supplied by Iran, showing how interconnected these threats are in the region.

Connection between nuclear weapons and missile technology

This missile controversy points out the troubling connection between nuclear weapons and missile technology. Although the IAEA does not cover missiles directly. US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also show concern about this Russia and Iran cooperation. According to them, in exchange for a missile, Russia is providing its nuclear knowledge to Iran. These missiles from Iran help Russia to make its efforts successful against Ukraine.  Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted that Russia is providing Iran with important technology, including nuclear and space programs, which are linked to missile development.

The IAEA agenda, which was set in June may not permit exploring these urgent issues. At the same time, the agency promotes cooperation, also some countries face criticism due to showing nonoperative behaviour. 

Its resolutions aren’t legally binding but do send strong political messages. However, Russia and China, who are the big opponents of the United States’ position,  made the border discussion more complicated. Because they can not block the outcome on their own. 

In June, Iran faced criticism from the IAEA due to not cooperating fully. Twenty out of thirty-five members stood in favour of the resolution and voted for it. While Russia and Iran both opposed it. The remaining twelve members chose not to vote. The IAEA has limited options for stronger action, mainly issuing censure resolutions. If the United States or any other countries tried to respond at the UNSC then Russia and China would use their veto power in resolution against Iran. So, the protests from the US and other European countries would have a small impact. 

After meeting with President Biden, British leader Keir Starmer described their discussions as extensive. The lack of a formal statement suggested they wanted to show unity while keeping Russia uncertain. Britain appeared to be a junior partner because some missiles requested by Ukraine included US parts. Still, both leaders seem focused on diplomatic solutions instead of military responses, indicating a shared strategy.

It looks like that recent diplomatic effort will affect Moscow. Iran and its supporting countries may ignore it. The proposal for the resolution against Iran at the IAEA conference is not safe because many nations may see it as unfair.