Iran's Supreme Leader Reappears; Tehran Suspends Nuclear Watchdog Cooperation
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, made his first public appearance since the recent 12-day war with Israel, attending a religious ceremony in Tehran. His appearance follows a period of heightened security and US warnings. Concurrently, Iran's president ordered the suspension of cooperation with the UN's nuclear watchdog, the IAEA. This move severely limits inspectors' access to a nuclear program that has been enriching uranium to near weapons-grade levels, escalating global security and non-proliferation concerns.
Unpacked:
The 12-day war was triggered by Israel's offensive against Iran, launched on June 13, 2025. Israel cited Iran's nuclear program as an 'existential threat' and targeted Iranian nuclear, missile, and military sites in response to growing regional tensions and failed diplomatic efforts.
Iran suspended cooperation with the IAEA following the conflict with Israel and amid heightened security concerns. This action severely limits international inspectors' access to Iran's nuclear facilities, raising fears that Iran could further advance its uranium enrichment toward weapons-grade levels, heightening global proliferation and security risks.
The United States intervened diplomatically during the conflict, urging a ceasefire and warning both sides against escalation. The US also expressed serious concern about Iran’s decision to limit IAEA access, warning that it undermines global non-proliferation efforts and could provoke further regional instability.
After the conflict, Iran's nuclear program remains a significant concern. The extent of damage to its nuclear sites during the war is unclear, but with the suspension of IAEA cooperation, Iran's enrichment activities are less transparent, fueling international anxiety over potential progress toward weapons-grade uranium.