Iran threatens to expel UN inspectors amid rising tensions with US

Iran has warned it may expel UN nuclear inspectors as tensions escalate ahead of crucial talks with U.S. officials scheduled for Saturday. Ali Shamkhani, an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader, indicated on Thursday that Iran could take “deterrent measures,” including removing inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), should foreign threats persist.

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“The continuation of external threats and Iran being in a state of military attack may lead to deterrent measures, including the expulsion of IAEA inspectors and the cessation of cooperation,” Shamkhani said. His remarks came in response to calls from President Trump and other U.S. officials urging Iran to negotiate a new nuclear agreement, with the threat of military action if they refuse.

Following Shamkhani’s warning, the U.S. issued a stern response. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce cautioned that such an action would contradict Iran’s claims of pursuing a peaceful nuclear program. “Expelling IAEA inspectors from Iran would be an escalation and a miscalculation on Iran’s part,” she stated.

Shamkhani’s comments were also in reaction to President Trump’s statement on Wednesday that military action could still be on the table if negotiations falter. While Iran, particularly Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has rejected talks with the U.S. under conditions of “threat” and “pressure,” both countries have agreed to meet in Oman for negotiations.