Iranian lawmakers move to up nuclear enrichment, hamstring inspectors

The Iranian parliament has passed a bill demanding that the country’s atomic agency stockpile at least at least 120 kilograms of uranium enriched to 20 percent at the Fordo nuclear facility, and increase enrichment at the Natanz nuclear facility as well, both of which are suspected Iranian nuclear weapons sites, the Tasnim news agency reports.

The moves would be the latest violations of enrichment curbs set out by the 2015 nuclear deal.

Lawmakers, who kick off the session with chants of “Death to America!” and “Death to Israel!” also issue a statement demanding that Iran restrict access to UN inspectors at nuclear sites.

“Such atrocity entails an immediate and regret-inducing response,” including through “the revival of the country’s brilliant nuclear industry by ending its voluntary adherence to the Additional Protocol,” the statement reads, according to Press TV.

A bill brought for review to the parliament Sunday would stop inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency under the so-called additional protocol, which have provided an unprecedented, real-time look at Iran’s civilian nuclear program.

— with AP