What is the importance of the IAEA criticism and the Iranian agreement to new inspections?
The IAEA decision means that, although Iran is censured, it is not taken to the Security Council for possible sanctions. It has also been warned that Security Council action will not be ruled out for any future violations. This was the result of a compromise between the United States, which wanted the Security Council brought in, and three European countries, the UK, France and Germany, which urged dialogue. All Western governments agree that the new inspection and verification system, or Additional Protocol, to which Iran has agreed, will have to be particularly tough. Is Iran ceasing its enrichment programme? Iran has promised to suspend the uranium enrichment programme it says it will need to provide fuel for its nuclear reactor. However, Iran said the suspension would only be temporary. The temporary nature of the action raises concerns in the West, which would like Iran to stop the processing permanently and accept fuel for its nuclear power from Western sources or from Russia whi
