US Reportedly Blocks Iran’s Nuclear Chief From IAEA Conference in Vienna

Iran has accused the United States of pressuring Austria to revoke a visa for the head of its atomic energy organization, Mohammad Eslami, preventing him from attending a key conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, according to Al Jazeera.

Iranian officials described the action as a violation of the rights of IAEA member states to participate in the agency’s proceedings, Al Jazeera reported, citing Iranian sources.

The IAEA conference in Vienna is a regular gathering of member states to discuss nuclear safety, safeguards and cooperation under the agency’s mandate. Eslami, as head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, would typically represent Iran at such sessions.

Details on the specific timing of the visa revocation and the exact nature of the alleged US pressure on Austrian authorities were not immediately available. Neither the US State Department nor Austrian officials have publicly commented on the claim, according to the available reporting.

The IAEA has not issued a statement addressing Iran’s allegation as of publication.

The dispute comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Western powers, including the United States, over Tehran’s nuclear program. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear activities are peaceful, while the US and its allies have repeatedly raised concerns about the program’s scope and transparency.

This report is based on information provided by Al Jazeera. Further details from the parties involved, including the US government, Austrian authorities and the IAEA, have not yet been independently verified.