IAEA to discuss tougher report on Iran´s nuclear issue

Source: Xinhua | 06-02-2008 16:31

BEIJING, June 1 (Xinhua) -- An upcoming meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is expected to focus on a latest report on the Iranian nuclear issue, which struck a tougher tone than before.

The report, prepared by IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei, was submitted last week to the United Nations Security Council and the IAEA Board of Governors, which will start a five-day meeting in Vienna Monday.

According to media reports in Vienna, the draft report expressed "serious concern" over Iran's nuclear program, saying Tehran was hiding information about alleged studies into making nuclear warheads as well as defying UN demands to suspend uranium enrichment activities.

International Atomic Energy Agency Mohamed ElBaradei makes a speech during a celebration ceremony at Vienna's UN headquarters April 25, 2008. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

In the report, which was released last Monday, ElBaradei said Iran still has to provide explanations to support its claim that allegations about nuclear weapons-related projects are false.

The report also noted that Teheran is continuing to develop its uranium enrichment capability, ignoring the UN Security Council's demands for suspension of its nuclear program.

Iran's alleged studies regarding uranium conversion, high explosives testing and design of a missile re-entry vehicle remained a "matter of serious concern," said the report.

It was "essential" that Iran provide the UN nuclear watchdog with more information without delay, the report added.

Diplomats in Vienna said the tone of the IAEA report was unusually tough and reflected deep frustration at Iran's lack of cooperation.

Iran's possession of nuclear warhead diagrams was "alarming," IAEA Deputy Director General Olli Heinonen told board members three days after the report's release.