The European Union called on Iran to return to full compliance with its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and its comprehensive Safeguards Agreement, during a UN Security Council briefing on non-proliferation on 10 July 2026. Speaking on behalf of EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of the EU Delegation to the UN, expressed deep concern over Iran's escalating nuclear trajectory, noting that as of June 2025, Iran's stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% comprised 440 kg. He stressed that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been unable to verify Iran's nuclear material and cannot draw safeguards conclusions due to Iran's persistent lack of cooperation, and that the IAEA has lost continuity of knowledge regarding previously declared inventories.
The EU welcomed the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran and encouraged continuation of negotiations, which it said would provide an opportunity for regional stability and the full restoration of freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The EU commended Pakistan, Qatar and other regional partners for their mediation, and reaffirmed that diplomacy is the only way to sustainably resolve all outstanding concerns, including on Iran's nuclear and ballistic programmes and its destabilising activities in the region. The EU stated it is ready to use its sanctions-lifting leverage provided Iran changes its behaviour on the ground in a verifiable way.
The statement was delivered at a UN Security Council briefing on non-proliferation, where the Council discussed the 21st report of the UN Secretary-General on the implementation of Resolution 2231, which endorsed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The EU fully supports the impartial role of the IAEA and its Director General in upholding safeguards, nuclear safety and security. The High Representative will remain engaged with all relevant parties, including Iran, to support political and diplomatic efforts for a negotiated solution.
supporting diplomatic engagement while insisting on verifiable steps from Iran. The impact of this stance is felt by several stakeholders. For Iran, the EU's readiness to use sanctions-lifting leverage offers a potential incentive for compliance, but the demand for verifiable behaviour change and the IAEA's inability to draw safeguards conclusions increase pressure on Tehran. For the IAEA, the EU's full support strengthens its mandate but highlights the challenge of monitoring without Iranian cooperation. For regional actors like Pakistan and Qatar, the EU's commendation of their mediation efforts boosts their diplomatic role. For global energy markets, the EU's emphasis on restoring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz signals concern over potential disruptions to oil shipments, though no concrete measures were announced.
No immediate institutional follow-up was specified beyond the High Representative's continued engagement.