Within the framework of the grain shipment agreement signed in Istanbul on July 22 by Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and the United Nations (UN), 3 more ships loaded with corn set off from Ukraine. The Panama-flagged NAVISTAR, carrying 33,000 tons of corn from Ukraine to Ireland, left Odessa Port. The Maltese-flagged ROJEN, which was going to England and carrying 13,000 tons of corn, set off from the Port of Chornomorsk with the Turkish-flagged ship POLARNET.
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