Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union.

We thank the Director General for his update.

The European Union expresses serious concern about the risk of a spiral of violence in the Middle East following the Israeli strikes against nuclear sites in Iran and Iran’s response.

The European Union has repeatedly expressed its concern about Iran’s escalating nuclear trajectory. The EU has been engaged over many years in a diplomatic effort to find a negotiated solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, including as coordinator of the negotiations that led to the agreement on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which was signed in 2015.

It remains a key security priority for the EU to ensure through diplomatic means that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon. We continue to believe that a diplomatic, negotiated solution represents the only way to ensure the exclusively peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear programme in a sustainable manner and to maintain peace and security in the Middle East.

Only yesterday, this Board adopted a resolution, which demonstrated our collective commitment to a negotiated solution.

We urge all parties to abide by international law, show restraint, and avoid targeting of civilians and any steps which could lead to serious consequences such as potential radioactive release. We recall General Conference decision GC (53)/DEC/13, which recognised the importance attached to safety, security and physical protection of nuclear material and nuclear facilities.

We express full support for the Director General and the IAEA’s verification and monitoring of Iran’s nuclear programme and its reporting. We encourage all parties to cooperate with the Agency, ensure the safety of its staff, and allow it to perform its full role in support of nuclear safety, security and safeguards. The safety of inspectors should never be put at risk.

We thank DG Grossi for his updates and look forward to his further reporting.

Thank you, Chair