UN Security Council Rejects US-Drafted Iran Nuclear Expert Mandate Extension

The UN Security Council has rejected a US-proposed resolution aimed at extending the mandate of a panel of nuclear experts monitoring Iran by one year. This decision marks a significant moment in the international community's oversight of Iran's nuclear activities. The vote was 11 in favor and 2 against, with Somalia and Pakistan abstaining. However, Russia and China exercised their veto power, preventing the resolution from passing. The proposal would have allowed independent experts to continue scrutinizing sanctions imposed on Iran in connection with its nuclear program. The expert panel has reported that Iran maintains stockpiles of highly enriched uranium, some of which is approaching levels suitable for nuclear weapons. This veto comes at a time when access to Iran's nuclear sites has been restricted since June 2025, posing a significant setback for international monitoring efforts. Russia and China had previously urged the US and its allies not to put the resolution to a vote, arguing that it would only increase tensions within the Security Council. However, Washington chose to proceed with the vote, highlighting the divergence of views among major powers regarding the international framework for Iran's nuclear issue. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer