Iran on Thursday confirmed its continued commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), while harshly criticizing Germany for what it called “malice” following Berlin’s condemnation of Tehran’s suspension of cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on social media platform X, “Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement.” His remarks came after Germany’s foreign office urged Iran to reverse its decision, saying it “sends a devastating message” and removes the chance for diplomatic oversight of Iran’s nuclear program.
Tehran suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Wednesday, accusing the agency of remaining silent over US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
Araghchi sharply criticized Germany’s reaction, accusing Berlin of showing clear bias against Iran. He specifically responded to a German post on X that called on Iran to resume its cooperation with the IAEA. “The explicit German support for the bombing of Iran has obliterated the notion that the German regime harbours anything but malice towards Iranians,” he said.
On June 17, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz added fuel to the controversy by publicly stating that “Israel is doing the dirty work for all of us” by attacking Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
The situation follows a violent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel. During the fighting, Israel — backed by the United States — launched strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities including Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. According to Iranian judiciary reports, over 900 people were killed in Iran as a result of the attacks. Iran retaliated with drone and missile strikes, which Israeli authorities say resulted in 28 deaths.
Tensions remain high as diplomatic efforts face increasing obstacles.