The writers who reached out across the divide

Nov 6, 2023 ·

The BBC reported on November 27, 2023 that the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has found evidence of a "secret atomic archive" at an Iranian military site that appears to show research into nuclear weapons. The archive was reportedly obtained from Iran by Israeli intelligence in 2018 and revealed documents showing research into how to build a nuclear bomb, as well as discussions about the importance of keeping it secret. The IAEA investigation corroborates the findings of the Israeli intelligence agency.

The IAEA also conducted its own investigation, but had not released the results until now. The agency's director general, Rafael Grossi, said the evidence raises "serious questions" about Iran's past activities related to nuclear weapons and whether or not they may have violated the 2015 nuclear deal. The deal was agreed between world powers and Tehran in 2015. It is unclear if Iran is still in compliance with the agreement.

The United States left the deal in 2018, but the other signatories – France, the UK, Germany, Russia and China – are still in the agreement and have insisted Tehran abide by its commitments. US President Joe Biden has indicated he will attempt to revive the deal, but this latest news could complicate any effort to do so.

The findings come as tensions between Israel and Iran are high, with both countries having traded blows in the last few months. In August, an attack on Iran's Natanz nuclear facility caused extensive damage and prompted Iran to announce plans to increase uranium enrichment activity. This ratcheting up of tensions could lead to a military conflict between Iran and Israel, further destabilizing the region.

Overall, the discovery of the secret atomic archive further complicates the situation between Iran and the international community. It remains to be seen what action will be taken in response to this news. However, the implications for the 2015 nuclear deal are clear: the agreement is now facing serious questions about its future.