The United Nations nuclear watchdog agency's board adopted a resolution on Wednesday censuring the Islamic Republic of Iran for past nuclear cover-ups.
The resolution, adopted by the 35-nation board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), did not confront Tehran with a direct threat of sanctions - resolving a sticking point between the United States and key European powers over how to deal with Iran.
Adopted by consensus, the resolution warns against "further serious Iranian failures," saying that could lead the board to consider actions allowed by its statute - shorthand for UN Security Council action.
While welcoming Iran's "offer of active cooperation and openness" - including suspending uranium enrichment and agreeing to thorough inspections on IAEA demand - the measure calls for a "particularly robust verification system" to test Tehran's honesty, according to AP.
Washington had wanted a specific mention of Security Council action - with an implicit threat of sanctions - should Tehran fail to come clean on past nuclear secrets and renege on pledges to open present activities to full IAEA inspection.
On its part, Iran hailed the resolution. A statement sent to AFP from foreign ministry spokesman Hamid Reza Asefi said the resolution was an achievement for the Islamic republic and the proof of its transparency. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
