Iran has rejected fresh nuclear commitments following a demand from Vice President J.D. Vance that international inspectors resume their work in the country. The standoff, unfolding at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, underscores the deepening rift between Tehran and the Trump administration over the 2015 nuclear deal.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Vance called for the unconditional return of inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), accusing Iran of violating the terms of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). 'Iran must comply with its obligations,' he said. 'The world cannot tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran.'
Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, responded hours later, stating that Tehran would not accept 'new conditions' outside the framework of the original agreement. 'We have already fulfilled our commitments under the JCPOA,' he said. 'The United States cannot dictate terms while maintaining its own illegal sanctions.'
Western diplomats had hoped for a diplomatic opening after months of stalled talks. The IAEA reported in August that Iran has enriched uranium to 84% purity, dangerously close to weapons-grade levels. Vance's intervention is seen by some as a hardening of the US position, but by others as a necessary ultimatum.
Late on Wednesday, the White House confirmed that the president would not lift sanctions until Iran 'fully cooperates' with the IAEA. No new talks have been scheduled, and the situation remains tense. Analysts warn that continued non-compliance by Iran could lead to a crisis of credibility for the non-proliferation regime.
For now, the path to resolution appears blocked. Tehran insists on sanctions relief first; Washington demands verified compliance. Neither side shows signs of yielding.
