State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said Wednesday that Iran “must cooperate fully, without further delay” after President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a law suspending his country’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iran’s parliament had voted to suspend cooperation previously.
Why It Matters
Iran could use the suspension of IAEA cooperation as leverage in future negotiations on its nuclear program, though no talks are currently due after Tehran rejected President Donald Trump‘s offer to restart diplomacy immediately on the issue.
Iran says its nuclear program is for civilian energy purposes, and so peaceful. But it had enriched uranium to a near weapons-grade level, and well beyond what is needed for energy, putting it close to developing a bomb if it opted to do so.
What To Know
In response to a question at a press briefing about Iran’s significant move, Bruce first interjected and said sarcastically, “surprise,” then chuckled and said “I have a few” thoughts on the topic.
She said, “It is unacceptable that Iran chose to suspend cooperation with the IAEA at a time when it has a window of opportunity to reverse course and choose a path of peace and prosperity.
What Happens Next
Trump said the U.S. would intervene militarily again if Iran continues to enrich uranium and tries to rebuild its nuclear facilities.
Update: 7/2/25, 3:06 p.m. ET: This article was updated with new information and remarks.
Update: 7/2/25, 4:24 p.m. ET: This article was updated with new information and remarks.
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