US blocks Iran nuclear chief from attending key Vienna conference

The United States has blocked Iran's nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, from attending the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference in Vienna. Austria revoked Eslami's visa after the US objected to a requested waiver of UN Security Council travel bans, which were reinstated under the "snapback" sanctions framework. Iran accuses the US of pressuring Austria and views the decision as a violation of member state rights and a politicization of the IAEA. Iran's ambassador stated that Eslami's visa was initially approved and that Austria's decision infringes on Iran's right to participate effectively. The US maintains that Eslami's attendance would have undermined the IAEA's credibility due to ongoing disputes over nuclear inspections.

Iran's nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, was prevented from attending an annual conference at the UN's nuclear agency headquarters in Vienna on Monday due to US pressure. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed Washington applied pressure to stop Eslami from entering Austria, stating Eslami is a sanctioned individual and the US does not want sanctioned individuals evading sanctions. Eslami's request for a waiver of sanctions was denied. Iranian state TV reported that Eslami and his delegation were blocked from reaching Vienna because of US obstructions.