Tehran:Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has urged the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to denounce a United States offer of up to $20 million for information on Iran's nuclear program. Araghchi warned that this move could pose a danger to the country's nuclear facilities and scientists.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Araghchi described the US announcement as "abhorrent" in a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the UN Security Council president, and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. He called for unequivocal condemnation of the offer, which was announced through the US State Department's Rewards for Justice program and reposted by the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

The US offer seeks information about Iran's nuclear facilities, equipment, scientists, and personnel, along with the possibility of relocation. Araghchi accused Washington of encouraging espionage against Iran's nuclear program and warned that the initiative could expose nuclear scientists and technical personnel to risks such as assassination and sabotage.

Araghchi raised concerns about the credibility and integrity of the IAEA's monitoring system, questioning the implications of seeking confidential information about nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards. He emphasized that the normal implementation of safeguards obligations cannot be expected when nuclear facilities and personnel face threats of attack and sabotage.

Highlighting Article IV of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Araghchi asserted countries' rights to develop and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. He called on the UN Security Council to address potential consequences for international peace and security and to hold Washington accountable for what he described as unlawful actions.

Furthermore, Araghchi urged IAEA Director General Grossi to protect confidential information collected during inspections from misuse for intelligence purposes and to bring the issue before the IAEA Board of Governors. The dispute arises amid ongoing tensions following a US-Israeli military offensive against Iran on February 28, with Washington and Tehran still at odds over nuclear activities, sanctions relief, and conditions for a lasting settlement.