Over 32 million tonnes of grain have been transported through the Black Sea grain corridor since August 2022, according to Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu. The grain was primarily shipped to China, Spain, Türkiye, and Italy, with a notable increase in shipments to African countries. Out of the 987 vessels loaded with grain, 290 were of Turkish origin. The resumption of grain exports from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports was facilitated by an agreement between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by Türkiye and the United Nations, following a conflict between the two countries in February 2022.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR