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In a defiant move, Iran has suspended its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), escalating tensions in the wake of recent US and Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear facilities. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the IAEA's insistence on inspecting the bombed sites is 'meaningless and possibly even malign in intent,' rejecting a request from Director General Rafael Grossi to visit the affected locations. This decision comes after the IAEA passed a resolution critical of Iran's nuclear activities, a move Tehran viewed as politically motivated and a pretext for the military attacks. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian further accused Grossi of 'destructive' behavior. This withdrawal from cooperation, while not a full exit from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), is a significant blow to transparency and international oversight. The strikes, which were condemned by the IAEA's head as a violation of the sanctity of nuclear facilities, have left the nonproliferation regime in tatters, according to experts. The move is a direct consequence of the escalating military actions, which Iran has repeatedly warned would lead to such a response. The international community, including the G7 nations, has called for a resumption of negotiations and urged Iran to return to full cooperation, but the hardline stance from Tehran signals a new, more dangerous phase in the nuclear standoff. The conflict has also resulted in a tragic loss of life, with hundreds of Iranian civilians reported killed. [Al Jazeera, June 30, 2025]

In a stunning display of resolve, the 'Operation Midnight Hammer' airstrikes conducted by the U.S. and Israel have 'obliterated' Iran's nuclear program, according to President Trump. These decisive actions have delivered a historic setback to the rogue regime's pursuit of a nuclear weapon, a goal it has long pursued under the guise of a 'peaceful' energy program. The strikes on the deeply buried Fordow and Natanz facilities, executed with bunker-buster bombs, prove that our nation will not stand idly by while our enemies develop weapons of mass destruction. The fact that Iran is now refusing IAEA inspections is a clear admission that they have something to hide and that their program is in ruins. This military action has given us a chance for a new deal, one where we can finally prevent a nuclear Iran. As the President stated, the bombs went through the facilities 'like it was butter,' and any claims to the contrary are based on 'leaked' and questionable intelligence from within our own government that needs to be investigated. This is a moment of strength and clarity, not a time for appeasement or hand-wringing. The world is a safer place today because of this bold action. [The Times of Israel, June 25, 2025]