Iran Statement at IAEA BoG: Agenda item 4

Statement by the Delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran before the IAEA Board of Governors: Agenda Item 4: “Nuclear Security” (Vienna 8 September 2026)

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

Mr. Chair,

we associate with G77 statement.

Iran attaches great importance to nuclear security and recognizes its role in ensuring safe, secure and sustainable use of nuclear energy. While, responsibility for nuclear security rests exclusively with each State, the Agency must assist the States, upon request, and the Board must facilitate its realization.

Nevertheless, this Board cannot credibly consider such issues while remaining dead-silent on massive aggressions against Iran. What meaning can nuclear security have, if nothing is done against unlawful attacks to the safeguarded peaceful nuclear facilities? What meaning can nuclear security have, if such aggressions are carried out by an NPT depositary State and an outlaw regime outside the Treaty against an NPT party? What meaning can nuclear security have, if the Board fails to issue a simple statement of condemnation, let alone taking an effective proportionate response?

If the Agency is unwilling or unable to give due consideration to the implications for nuclear security, on what grounds should Member States place their trust in its functioning and effectiveness? The consequences of such failures undermine the credibility of the entire global non-proliferation norms.

Mr. Chair,

The distinct legal nature and objectives of nuclear security with nuclear safety and safeguards must be fully recognized in accordance with GC resolutions. Nuclear security considerations in the context of emerging nuclear technologies, including SMRs must neither impose preconditions on, nor prejudice, the inalienable right to develop, research, production and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

Given the emerging nature of application of artificial intelligence in the field of nuclear security, its technical, legal, and operational implications have not yet been fully examined or understood by Member States. It is therefore important that the Secretariat pursue this matter in a transparent inclusive manner, in close consultation with Member States. The Secretariat should ensure the timely dissemination of relevant information. More importantly, decisions on activities including the development of relevant guidance must be made by meaningful participation of States.

Finally, it shall be reiterated that confidentiality constitutes an essential element linked to nuclear security. Breaches of confidentiality have resulted in the disclosure of sensitive information in the past, that subsequently been exploited to facilitate acts of sabotage against safeguarded nuclear facilities. Such breaches are a matter of grave concern and the Agency has a clear Statutory responsibility in this regard.

I thank you, Mr. Chair.