Iran Demands UN And IAEA Condemnation Over US$20 Million US Bounty For Nuclear Intelligence

ISTANBUL, Nov 11  – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called on the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, to unequivocally condemn a US financial offer of up to US$20 million for information targeting Iran’s nuclear program.

In a formal letter sent to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the President of the UN Security Council, and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, Araghchi categorized the incentive scheme as an “abhorrent” directive that threatens national security and endangers key personnel.

The incentive program—offered through the US Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program and amplified by US Central Command (CENTCOM)—promises up to US$20 million and potential international relocation in exchange for intelligence on Iranian nuclear sites, specialized equipment, scientists, and operational staff.

Araghchi accused the United States of weaponizing state-sponsored espionage, cautioning that the reward initiative exposes scientists and technicians to grave risks, including targeted assassinations, physical sabotage, and broader security threats.

Furthermore, Araghchi highlighted key legal and procedural concerns:

• IAEA Safeguards Integrity: Solicitations for covert data regarding nuclear facilities currently monitored under IAEA safeguards undermine the agency’s credibility and inspection framework.
• Impact on Compliance: Normal adherence to nuclear safeguards cannot be maintained while nuclear infrastructure and personnel face active threats of hostility and covert sabotage.
• NPT Article IV: Washington’s actions violate Article IV of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which safeguards sovereign rights to develop peaceful nuclear energy.
• Data Security & Oversight: The IAEA must actively prevent inspection data from being funneled into foreign intelligence operations and refer the issue directly to the IAEA Board of Governors.

The diplomatic dispute unfolds amidst heightened tensions following the February 28, 2026 military offensive against Iran by US and Israeli forces. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, Washington and Tehran remain locked in standoffs over sanctions relief, nuclear activities, and baseline security guarantees.

Key Legal Claims, Incentive Parameters, and Diplomatic Directives

Key elements of the diplomatic dispute and Iranian legal objections include:

• Incentive Offer: US State Department Rewards for Justice bounty of up to US$20 million plus relocation for intelligence on Iranian nuclear facilities, equipment, and staff.
• Addressees of Iranian Protest: UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UN Security Council President, and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.
• Primary Iranian Objections: Encouragement of covert espionage, threat of scientist assassinations, breach of NPT Article IV rights, and compromise of IAEA safeguards.
• Requested Actions: UNSC action holding Washington accountable, IAEA protection of inspection data, and referral to the IAEA Board of Governors.
• Conflict Context: Disputes following the Feb 28, 2026 military offensive regarding nuclear operations, sanctions relief, and peace terms.

–NMT