Trump's Ultimatum to Iran Makes IAEA Meeting a Flashpoint
US President Donald Trump's warning to Iran—that Tehran has only 10 to 15 days to avoid potential military action—comes at a crucial moment in nuclear diplomacy. The UN nuclear watchdog will soon reconvene to determine action against Iran's nuclear program.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board is scheduled to meet on March 2 in Vienna for five days. Diplomats are expected to discuss the possibility of a new condemnation resolution against Iran, which could even pave the way for a referral to the UN Security Council for further action.
This situation has raised concerns about a repeat of the old pattern. The narrative circulating alludes to an incident in June, when Israel reportedly launched an attack within 24 hours of the IAEA board condemning Iran's lack of cooperation with the nuclear watchdog. At the time, IAEA findings were also cited by US officials as part of their justification for military action.
Some observers believe that the IAEA's decision or outcome has the potential to create a political and legal loophole for Washington to take stronger action. Tariq Rauf, a former nuclear verification policy official at the IAEA, said this dynamic could create room for the US government to escalate pressure to the point of regime change—although this scenario remains debated.
On the ground, the US is reportedly amassing forces in the Middle East as an option if the situation worsens. Trump stated that the US "will get a deal, or it will be a bad thing for them," emphasizing that diplomatic pressure goes hand in hand with military preparedness.
Meanwhile, China, Russia, and Iran published photos of a rare meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, discussing concerns over the potential use of force. Grossi also emphasized that time is running out and said concrete efforts are underway, while IAEA inspectors reportedly have not verified the status of Iran's stockpile of near-bomb-grade uranium for more than eight months. (alg)
Source: Newsmaker.id
