This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.
Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.
24 January 2003
Aleksander Rumyantsev, Russian Atomic Energy Minister, responds to a statement of an US official that the United States would not object to the construction of single nuclear reactor in Iran, he says that he is glad about the "favorable shift" in US attitude.
—"Russian minister welcomes relaxation of US stance on nuclear plant in Iran," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 24 January 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com>.
1 February 2003
Viktor Kozlov, head of Atomstroiexport, says that his company will seek fresh contracts with Iran. He brushes aside US concerns that the reactor could be used to develop nuclear weapons. Mr. Kozlov states, "Russia is convinced that the plants it builds in neighboring counties are used only for civilian purposes....You shouldn't think Russian leaders are stupid."
—Clara Ferreira-Marques, "Russia Seeks Iran Nuclear Deals," Reuters, 3 February 2003, in <http://www.moscowtimes.com/>.
3 February 2003
In response to US State Department spokesman Richard Baucher statement that Iran is allegedly using technologies provided by Russia to obtain nuclear weapons, Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev says that Russia does not violate international obligations and that "all of Iran's activities are under IAEA control."
—Andrei Popov, "Russian minister emphasizes cooperation with Iran comes under IAEA control," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 3 February 2003; in FBIS Document CEP 20030203000375, 3 February 2003.
4 February 2003
Western diplomatic sources say that the International Atomic Energy Agency plans to conduct an inspection of Iranian nuclear facilities during the first half of 2003 amid rising concerns of Tehran's nuclear capability.
—"IAEA plans to examine Iran's nuclear facilities," Middle East Newsline, 4 February 2003, in <http://www.menewsline.com/>.
4 February 2003
Dr. Mohamed El Baradei states that he will be heading to Iran later this month with a team of IAEA experts to discuss Iran's nuclear programs and to urge the Iranians to accept the additional inspection protocol. Dr. El Baradei says "I would like to discuss with Iranian officials the possibility of Iran joining the Additional Protocol....That I think would clearly create additional assurance with regard to the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme."
—"U.N. wants to verify if Iran atomic plans peaceful," Reuters, 4 February 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
5 February 2003
Ali Akbar Salehi, Iranian Representative to the IAEA, says that Iran has always been in favor of the Additional Protocol on inspection of nuclear sites. He adds that only 50 members of the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty (NPT) have signed the additional protocol, and it has been ratified in only 27 countries. Mr. Salehi adds that the Head of the IAEA should not speak as a spokesman for the US administration.
—"IAEA does not need US claims to do its own job, Iranian envoy," IRNA (Tehran), 5 February 2003, in <http://www.irna.com/>.
5 February 2003
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev tells Vremya Novostei that the plant that Russia is building in Bushehr is identical to the one the US had promised to build in North Korea. He adds, "The IAEA last year carried out 60 inspections in Iran without finding a single case of abuse."
—"Russia sells uranium to South Korea, seeks nuclear contracts in Iran," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 5 February 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030205000149, 5 February 2003.
9 February 2003
Iranian President Mohammed Khatami declares that Iran had discovered and extracted indigenous uranium in the Savand area 200km from Yazd, which would be used to produce nuclear energy. President Khatami says, "Iran has discovered reserves and extracted uranium....[W]e are determined to use nuclear technology for civilian purposes." With regard to IAEA inspections President Khatami states, "It is our legitimate right to obtain nuclear energy for peaceful aims....We are ready to accept inspectors to check our (nuclear) activities in order to reveal the lies told by others."
—"Khatami says Iran mines uranium for nuclear plant," Reuters, 9 February 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
10 February 2003
Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, Iranian Vice President and head of the Iranian Nuclear Energy Organization, says that Iran is not interested in nuclear arms production but seeks to acquire nuclear know how to generate electricity to meet its energy demands. He also says that Iran plans to build a factory for the production of uranium yellow cake. As he put it, "the [Iranian Nuclear Energy] Organization started its activities by drilling special wells in Arkedan of Yazd, where uranium reserves lie deep underground. It now plans to build a factory for the production of yellow cake." He also says, "With the completion of the Isfahan factory in the near future, we hope to complete the fuel cycle and indigenously produce fuel for our plants."
—"Aqazadeh says Iran seeks nuclear know how to generate electricity, not weapons," IRNA (Tehran), 10 February 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030210000068, 10 February 2003.
10 February 2003
Melissa Fleming, spokeswoman for the IAEA, says that the agency has long been aware of Iran's indigenous uranium explorations efforts. She states, "This comes as no surprise to us, as we have been aware of this uranium exploration project for several years now....[I]n fact, a senior IAEA official visited this mine in 1992."
—"U.N. Aware of Iran's Uranium Plants," Associated Press, 10 February 2003, in <http://www.nytimes.com/>.
11 February 2003
The Russian company Atomstroiexport announces that it has begun technical studies on the construction of a second unit at Bushehr.
—"Russia starts feasibility study on second unit at Iranian nuclear power plant," Radio 1 (Tehran), 12 February 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030212000004, 12 February 2003.
13 February 2003
Nikolai Shengaryov, spokesman for the Russian Ministry of Atomic Energy, says that Russia may provide the Bushehr reactor with fuel from the newly found uranium reserves in Iran.
—"Russia can use Iran's uranium deposits for Bushehr project," IRNA (Tehran), 13 February 2003, in <http://www.irna.com/>.
16 February 2003
Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi tells a news conference that Iran wants the Middle East to be completely free of weapons of mass destruction. He says, "We believe the Middle East should be free of nuclear weapons and chemical weapons." Mr. Kharrazi also accuses Washington of hypocrisy on the subject, specifically for accusing Iran of developing weapons of mass destruction while being silent on Israeli nuclear weapons.
—"Iran Wants No Mass Destruction Arms in Middle East," Reuters, 16 February 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
17 February 2003
A delegation of the Russian Ministry of Atomic Power is visiting Iran to discuss the construction of Bushehr and nuclear cooperation.
—"Russian delegation in Iran for nuclear power talks," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 17 February 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030217000041, 17 February 2003.
19 February 2003
Emma Udwin, spokeswoman for the European Commission, says that the EU understands Iran's need to develop a nuclear program for peaceful uses but advised the Iranians to sign the IAEA additional protocol to remove suspicions about their intentions.
—"EU understands Iran's need for nuclear energy," IRNA (Tehran), 19 February 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030219000039, 19 February 2003.
22 February 2003
In a meeting in Tehran between President Khatami and IAEA Chief Mohamed El Baradei, Iran agreed to provide the IAEA preliminary information about any plans to build new nuclear facilities. The two leaders met after El Baradei visited a plant that is being built in Natanz. President Khatami says Iran would further cooperate with the IAEA to avoid any "misunderstandings," and states "we hope the Iranian efforts, which are legal and fair, will not become a victim of the discriminatory policies of certain countries. Dr. El Baradei stressed that if Iran signed the additional protocol, the country would dispel doubts about its nuclear ambitions. Iran has refused the additional protocol—which would allow the IAEA to conduct snap inspections and give the agency freer access to nuclear sites with little prior warning—but agreed to hold more talks on the issue.
—"Iran gives nuclear pledge," BBC (London), 22 February 2003, <http://news.bbc.co.uk/>.
24 February 2003
In an interview with CNBC, John Bolton, undersecretary of state, says that Iran plays a leading role in the Bush administration agenda, and that Iran is seeking technological assistance from North Korea and China to enhance its weapons of mass destruction programs.
—"Iran seeks WMD help from China, N. Korea," Middle East Newsline, 24 February 2003, in <http://www.menewsline.com/>.
22-23 February 2003
Occupied with Iraq's weapons of mass destruction controversy, the director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency Dr. Mohamed El Baradei had to cut short his long-awaited inspection of Iran's unreported nuclear sites in Natanz and Arak. The IAEA has consequently decided to reduce the scope of its inspections in Iran.
—"IAEA cuts short inspections of Iran's nukes," World Tribune, 24 February 2003, in <http://www.worldtribune.com/>.
28 February 2003
The British government disputes a claim by the BBC that it sold beryllium to Iran, which is used in the development of nuclear weapons. The British Foreign Office Minister Mike O'Brien says that the export of less than one-half of an ounce of this precious metal was "not of concern with respect to use in weapons of mass destruction."
—"London Denies Ban on Beryllium Exports," Iran-Daily, 1 May 2003, in <http://www.iran-daily.com/>.
4 March 2003
Hassan Rohani, secretary general of the Iranian National Supreme Security Council, says that, "Iran will start operating its nuclear facility in Isfahan early next [Iranian] year." The Iranian calendar year starts on 21 March. The United States fears the uranium processing plant may be a part of a secret program to develop nuclear weapons.
—"Iran Uranium Facility Seen Onstream in Few Weeks," Reuters, 4 March 2003, in <http://story.news.yahoo.com>.
10 March 2003
Iran accuses the United States of sabotaging its cooperation with the IAEA by constantly alleging that Iran is attempting to build nuclear weapons. Hamid Reza Asefi, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman, tells IRNA, "We believe that the US is sabotaging the close and constructive cooperation between Iran and the IAEA....The arrogant US officials are about to weaken the international organization by distorting facts."
—"Iran Says US Sabotaging Its Cooperation with IAEA," Reuters, 10 March 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
10 March 2003
US Diplomatic sources claim that the uranium enrichment facility near Natanz is much further along than previously revealed. They claim that the plant is "extremely advanced" where "hundreds" of gas centrifuges are assembled and ready to enrich uranium. The plant allegedly also contains "the parts for a thousand others ready to be assembled."
—"Iran's Nuclear Threat," Time, 10 March 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
10 March 2003
Pakistani Foreign Office spokesman Aziz Ahmed Khan rejects media allegations at a weekly press briefing and declares that Pakistan has not extended any nuclear cooperation to Iran.
—"No Cooperation In Iranian Nuclear Program: FO," PNS (Islamabad), 11 March 2003, in <http://www.paknews.com/>.
11 March 2003
The head of the IAEA, Dr. Mohamed El Baradei says that the uranium enrichment plant he visited in Iran was "very sophisticated." He also states "I have impressed on the Iranian authorities the need to be fully transparent, the need to sign the additional protocol."
—"IAEA's El Baradei Says Uranium-Enriching Plant in Iran 'Very Sophisticated'," AFP (Paris), 11 March 2003; in FBIS document EUP20030311000370, 11 March 2003.
11 March 2003
Iranian President Mohammed Khatami and Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov meet in Tehran to discuss various issues including Iraq and the Iranian Russian nuclear energy cooperation.
—"Iranian president, Russian foreign minister discuss Iraq, Caspian, nuclear energy," Radio 1 (Tehran), 11 March 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030311000075, 11 March 2003.
11 March 2003
Bushehr plant Manager Nasser Sharif-Loo states that Russia and Iran have began preliminary discussion to build a second nuclear plant in southern Bushehr.
—"Iran, Russia discuss building of second nuclear plant in Bushehr," IRNA (Tehran), 11 March 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030311000039, 11 March 2003.
11 March 2003
Iranian officials declare that Russia will provide the Bushehr nuclear plant with its first shipment of enriched uranium in May. The shipment will consist of 90 tonnes of fuel.
—"Iran to receive Russian uranium for reactor in May," Reuters, 11 March 2003, in <http://www.sierratimes.com/>.
11 March 2003
According to the Iranian deputy head of Atomic Energy Organization Assadollah Sabori, the Bushehr nuclear plant is nearing completion. He says that "Over 70 percent of the work has been accomplished."
—Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran's Nuclear Plant Nears Completion," Associated Press, 11 March 2003, in <http://www.mcall.com/>.
11 March 2003
Mostafa Tajzadeh, a member of the reform movement in the Iranian Parliament, maintains that Iran is not developing nuclear weapons, while asserting that Iran has the right to develop them. He says, "It's basically a matter of equilibrium....One the one hand Israel says, 'If I don't have it, I don't have security.' And we say, 'As long as Israel has it, we don't have security'."
—Karl Vick, "Iranians Assert Right To Nuclear Weapons," Washington Post, 11 March 2003, in <http://www.washingtonpost.com/>.
12 March 2003
Iran's nuclear chief Gholam Reza Aghazadeh tells Le Monde that Iran is willing to sign the additional protocol of the NPT if Western countries drop their economic sanctions against Tehran. He says "We are waiting for the sanctions to be lifted before we sign."
—"Iran Would Sign Nuclear Treaty If Sanctions Lifted," Associated Press, 12 March 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
12 March 2003
In an interview with a Russian newspaper, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Romyantsov confirms that despite US pressure, Russia and Iran are determined to continue their nuclear cooperation.
—"Iran, Russia determined to continue nuclear cooperation despite US pressure," IRNA (Tehran), 12 March 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030312000119, 12 March 2003.
12 March 2003
US state department officials confirm Pakistan's claim that it is not providing assistance to Iran's nuclear program. Richard Boucher states at a Washington briefing, "We do believe that Pakistan takes this (nuclear) responsibility seriously."
—"No Pakistan support to Iran's N-plan: US," Dawn, 12 March 2003, in <http://www.dawn.com/>.
13 March 2003
A senior Iranian official reveals that Iran is seeking to establish its own fuel cycle out of concern that US pressure may work on foreign suppliers. Iran's ambassador to the United Nations Javad Zarif says in an interview at the UN, "You don't expect Iran to sit still....We don't have any confidence that two years down the road, three years down the road, the pressure by the United States may or may not work on our suppliers. We have to create source of self-sufficiency, which will include a fuel cycle program."
—Colum Lynch, "Envoy: Iran To Continue Its Nuclear Power Effort," Washington Post, 13 March 2003, in <http://www.washingtonpost.com/>.
15 March 2003
Iranian officials indicate that Iran is prepared discuss committing to the IAEA's additional protocol safeguards in return for technical assistance from the international community.
—"Iran seeks returns for nuclear safeguard," Gulf Daily, 16 March 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com>.
20 March 2003
A report from the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry reveals that Russia will provide fuel to the Bushehr nuclear plant for the duration of its operation.
—"Russia to provide Iran's Bushehr nuclear plant with fuel throughout its operation," Agentstvo Voyennykh Novostey (Moscow), 20 March 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030320000440, 20 March 2003.
20 March 2003
Russia declared that it does not intend to evacuate Russian experts and their families from Bushehr due to the Iraq conflict even though Bushehr is located 300 miles from Basra.
—"Russian experts not to be evacuated from Iranian power station," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 20 March 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030320000029, 20 March 2003.
24 March 2003
According to Russia's Ministers of Defense and Atomic Energy, Russia is disturbed by media reports that Western companies have been involved in shipping weapons of mass destruction technology to Iran. This came after media reports of the discovery of a centrifuge complex in Iran that could be used to enrich uranium which was produced with the aid of the British-Dutch URENCO Company.
—"Russia concerned about reports on Iran developing dual-purpose technology," Interfax (Moscow), 24 March 2003, in <http://www.interfax.com/>.
24 March 2003
According to reports from Moscow, Russia will shortly deliver the first 40 tons of nuclear fuel rods for Bushehr. It is also reported that the Russian Atomstoiexport has signed a contract with TWEL, one of the world's largest suppliers of fuel rods to acquire fuel rods for Bushehr.
—"Russia ready to start supply of nuclear fuel to Iran," Deutche Presse-Agentur, 24 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis, in <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.
26 March 2003
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev confirms that uranium enrichment equipment to Iran was supplied by the Western European company Urenco and not Russian companies. He states that part of the uranium enrichment equipment found in Iran bears Urenco markings. Previously, Urenco management had claimed that the centrifuge production technology was stolen from them two decades ago.
—"Rumyantsev: Russia did not supply uranium enrichment equipment to Iran," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 26 March 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030326000342, 26 March 2003.
26 March 2003
A Russian minister accuses the United States of hypocrisy in criticizing Russian sales of nuclear technology to Iran, while ignoring similar activity by western companies. Alexander Rumyantsev says, "We also have complaints against the United States....It is always criticizing us, but its close economic partners supply Iran with sensitive technology."
—"Russia slams US on Iran nuke program," Reuters, 26 March 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
28 March 2003
The British-Dutch company Urenco denies the suggestions by the Russian government that it has provided enrichment equipment to Iran, and demands that these allegations be immediately withdrawn.
—Nick Paton Walsh "Russia adds to Iran nuclear row," Guardian, 28 March 2003, in <http://www.guardian.co.uk/>.
9 April 2003
The General Director of Atomstoiexport Victor Kozlov tells Interfax that the war in Iraq will not affect the completion date of Bushehr's first power producing unit. The construction of Bushehr is to continue as planned without postponement.
—"Atomstoiexport says Iraq war will not change schedule for Bushehr project," Interfax (Moscow), 9 April 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030409000170, 9 April 2003.
28 April 2003
US Assistant Secretary of State John Wolf accuses Iran of cheating on its obligation under the NPT, stating that Iran has an "alarming, clandestine program" and "is going down the same path of denial and deception that handicapped international inspections in North Korea and Iraq."
—"US Accuses Iran of Cheating on Nuclear Arms Pact," Reuters, 28 April 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
6 May 2003
The head of the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization Gholam Reza Aqazedah presents an exhaustive sketch of Iran's nuclear program to United Nations diplomats reiterating that the program is peaceful.
—"Iran Firm on Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy, Official Tells UN," Tehran Times, May 8 2003, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
7 May 2003
In spite of US accusations, Iran states that it is expecting to receive a clean bill of health from the IAEA 16 June board meeting.
—"Iran Expects Clean Bill of Health from IAEA," Reuters, 7 May 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
8 May 2003
Diplomats say that the United States is lobbying the board of the International Atomic Energy Agency for a declaration that would declare Iran in violation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
—"Washington lobbies for UN censure of Iran's nuclear plans," Associated Press, 9 May 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
8 May 2003
Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Naqi Kamal Kharazi reveals in an interview that Iran is ready for a dialogue with the United States; however it would like the United States to stop making malicious allegations about the nature of Iran's nuclear program and to stop backing the Mujahidin e-Khalq group.
—"Iranian FM Kharazi on Nuclear Issue, Iraq; Urges US, EU To Stop Backing MKO," La Rapubblica (Rome), 9 May 2003; in FBIS Document EUP20030509000417, 9 May 2003.
13 May 2003
Russian officials and representatives of the Russian TVEL fuel company are negotiating with Iranians officials regarding the return of Russian spent nuclear fuel from the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—"Russia negotiating on return of spent nuclear fuel with Iran," Interfax (Moscow), 13 May 2003; In FBIS document CEP20030513000308, 13 May 2003.
14 May 2003
Colin Powell and Igor Ivanov are meeting in Moscow to discuss a variety of issues, including the war in Iraq, terrorism, and the Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation.
"Iranian Radio Expects Nuclear Ties With Russia To Continue Despite Powell Visit," Radio 1 (Tehran), 14 May 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030514000054, 14 May 2003.
15 May 2003
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Georgy Mamedov urges Iran to sign a protocol placing all its nuclear facilities under IAEA control.
—"Moscow urges Tehran to sign protocol on IAEA control over nuclear facilities," Interfax (Moscow), 15 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis, in <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.
15 May 2003
US Secretary of State Collin Powell states that the United States does not plan to take military action to stop Iran's nuclear programs. Mr. Powell says, "We are concerned about what Iran is doing (with its nuclear program)....We will work with the international community to persuade Iran they should not move in this direction....But it's not a matter for the armed forces of the United States at the moment."
—Jonathan Thatcher, "US: No Plans for Military Action in Iran," Reuters, 15 May 2003, in <http://www.reuters.com/>.
17 May 2003
Iranian officials state that Tehran supported the Syrian proposal to the UN to rid the Middle East of weapons of mass destruction.
—"Iran says it backs Syria's anti-WMD proposal to UN," Reuters, 17 May 2003; in http://www.iranexpert.com/.
24 May 2003
George Papandreou, the Foreign Minister of Greece who currently holds the European Union's rotating presidency, clarifies after a meeting with the Iranian Foreign Minister that the EU has never claimed that Iran is developing nuclear weapons.
—"Greek FM: EU Has Never Says Iran Has Nuclear Weapons," Tehran Times (Tehran), 24 May 2003, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
27 May 2003
In the aftermath of a recent meeting of European Union Foreign Ministers in Greece, EU officials are stepping up pressure on Iran and are implying that Iran should fully comply with the NPT or risk European change in attitude toward Iran.
—"EU presses Iran on nuclear arms," Financial Times (London), 27 May 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
27 May 2003
US officials say that the Bush administration is considering a Pentagon plan to destabilize Iran's powerful clergy through covert action. The administration officials are exploring ways to enhance public uprisings to diminish the influence of the religious Mullahs in Iran.
—William Douglas, "Plans to destabilize clergy," Long Island Newsday, 28 May 2003; .
27 May 2003
According to US and European officials, as a result of US pressure, Russia is telling Iran that it must sign the additional protocol in order to receive nuclear fuel for Bushehr.
—Guy Dinmore, "Russia presses Iran over nuclear fuel," Financial Times (London), 27 May 2003, in <http://www.ft.com/>.
27 May 2003
In a Washington press conference, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) reveals the existence two previously undisclosed uranium enrichment facilities west pf Tehran.
—Howard LaFranchi, "US weighs a tougher Iran stance," Christian Science Monitor, 28 May 2003, in <http://www.csmonitor.com/>.
28 May 2003
IAEA spokeswoman Melissa Fleming states that the IAEA has conducted several inspections in Iran since Mohamed El Baradei's last visit to Iran in February. Ms. Fleming also reveals that various swipe samples have been gathered by the inspectors and are currently being analyzed by the agency.
—"UN Nuclear Inspectors Continuing Inspections in Iran Ahead of Report," Paris AFP, 28 May 2003; in FBIS EUP20030528000438, 28 May 2003. 29 May 2003
30 May 2003
US military officials in Iraq notify the IAEA that its inspectors will be barred from entering the Tuwaitha nuclear research center when they arrive in the country next week. Moreover, according to the IAEA, the inspectors will eventually be permitted to perform only the minimum extent of checks required by international law, which amounts to conducting an inventory of one small area at the center where radioactive material was stored before the war. The inspectors will not be permitted to conduct an investigation of public health claims linked to the looting of nuclear materials from the center, nor will they be involved in the hunt for weapons of mass destruction.
—Julian Borger, "Iraq: after the war: Looting inquiry ban on nuclear inspectors," Guardian, 30 May 2003.
30 May 2003
According to US officials, hawkish members of the pentagon are cheering the Iran Democracy Act, which was proposed by Senator Sam Brownback. This legislation would allocate a sum larger than $50 million to Iranian opposition groups to support calls for a referendum in Iran on a secular democracy.
—Guy Dinmore, "Pentagon Pushes Tougher US line on Iran," Financial Times (London), 30 May 2003.
30 May 2003
The Foreign Minister of Iran invites Western countries to participate in the building of new nuclear plants in Iran. Mr. Kharazi also pledges to sign the IAEA's additional protocol if Iran gets access to the most modern atomic technologies.
—"Iran invites West to build nuclear plants," Associated Press, 30 May 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
30 May 2003
In a surprising twist, Russia's Atomic Minister offers the United States the choice to join Russia in building an Iranian nuclear power plant. Russian Minister Rumyantsev says, "There is enough place for everyone....We have made this proposal to our American colleagues several times during discussions on expert level, and they have been saying they need to think about it."
—"Minister offers US to join nuke deal with Iran," Russia Journal (Moscow), 30 May 2003, in <http://www.russiajournal.com/>.
30 May 2003
Sources in the Russian Federation Defense Ministry state that Iran is showing interest in acquiring advanced air defense technologies for the protection of the Bushehr nuclear facilities.
—Vladimir Urban, "Iran Shows 'Heightened Interest' in Acquiring Russian Weapon Systems," Russkiy Kuryer (Moscow), 30 May 2003; in FBIS CEP20030616000177, 30 May 2003.
Early June 2003
Hoping that Iranian dissident groups will mount a coup against the Iranian government before it develops nuclear weapons, some senior officials at the Pentagon are suggesting widespread covert operation against the Iranian regime.
—Julian Coman, "US Considers Helping Terror Group To Stop Iran's Nuclear Programme," Sunday Telegraph (London), 1 June 2003.
2 June 2003
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev says that Russia and Iran have reached an agreement in principle that mandates that all spent nuclear fuel from Bushehr's first unit will be returned to Russia for storage and processing during the entire period of Bushehr's operation.
—German Solomatin, "Spent Nuclear Fuel From Bushehr Plant To Return to Russia," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 2 June 2003; in FBIS Document CEP20030602000366, 2 June 2003.
3 June 2003
Vladimir Putin declares that Russia is determined to continue its nuclear cooperation with Iran, which will be subject to the supervision of the IAEA.
—"Putin: Iran, Russia will continue their joint nuclear programs," IRNA (Tehran), 3 June 2003, in <http://www.irna.com/>.
4 June 2003
Andrei Illarionov the top economic advisor to Russian President Putin, implies that further work on Bushehr hinges on Iranian acceptance of additional inspections by the IAEA.
—Peter Baker, "Russians Pressure Iran On Weapons," Washington Post, 5 June 2003.
4 June 2003
British Prime Minister Tony Blair states that Russia had pledged to suspend a planned shipment of nuclear fuel to Iran until the Iranians accept further international controls. Russia's top nuclear official denies this report and says that no such pledge had been given.
— Michael Wines, "Russia Pausing on Iran Nuclear Deal, Blair Says; Denial Follows," New York Times, 5 June 2003.
5 June 2003
Norinco, a major Chinese conglomerate, denies US allegations that it aided Iran's missile program and demands that the United States lifts the penalties that were imposed on Norinco products, which include firearms and firefighting technology.
—"Chinese Firm Denies Aiding Iran On Weapons," 6 June 2003.
5 June 2003
The Russian government vows to resume its nuclear assistance to Iran even if the latter rejects the tougher inspection regime that US demands. Dmitry Rogozin, chairman of the Duma's committee on international affairs, tells reporters in an interview, "We genuinely do not understand what the Americans want from us....We are not so insane as to set up a time bomb under our own chairs."
—David Sands, "Moscow To Keep Helping Tehran," Washington Times, 6 June 2003.
5 June 2003
Russian official states that Russia will supply Bushehr with nuclear fuel even if Iran does not sign the IAEA's additional protocol.
—Kseniya Kaminskaya, "Russia To Supply Nuclear Fuel to Iran Regardless of IAEA Protocol Outcome," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 5 June 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030605000051, 5 June 2003.
5 June 2003
Gholam Reza Shafei, Iranian Ambassador in Moscow, says that Iran is ready to sign an agreement with Russia concerning the return of used nuclear fuel from Russia.
—"Iran ready to sign protocol on returning used nuclear fuel to Russia," Interfax (Moscow), 5 June 2003.
6 June 2003
The IAEA claims that Iran has not met its obligations to "account for nuclear material, report on its processing and use, and to declare facilities where the material is stored and processed."
— "UN suspects Iran of nuclear breaches," BBC (London), 6 June 2003, http://www.news.bbc.co.uk.
10 June 2003
Iran states that 12 years ago it received 1.8 tons of uranium from China. The head of the Iran's Atomic Energy Organization confirms that the 1991 shipment included 1 ton of hexafluoride and 800 kilos of UF4 uranium. He adds that at the time, Iran and China did not see any legal necessity to inform the IAEA about the Uranium shipment.
—"Iran says it received 1,800 kg of uranium from China," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 10 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis, in <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.
11 June 2003
The Japanese newspaper Sankei Shimbun reports that in the past year, Iranian nuclear experts secretly visited North Korea, possibly to receive advice on how to deal with international inspectors. An Iranian official denies the reports and states that no Iranian nuclear officials have visited North Korea.
—"Iran's nuclear experts seek Pyongyang's advice: Three visits this year: 'Axis of evil' sharing information on inspections: report," Reuters, 12 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis, in <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.
13 June 2003
The English newspaper timesonline.com reports that it acquired a confidential IAEA report that states that Iran has "failed to meet its obligations...with respect to the reporting of nuclear material, the processing and use of that material, and the declaration of facilities where the material was stored and processed."
— Philip Webster, "Britain takes steps to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions," Times Online, 13 June 2003, in <http://www.timesonline.co.uk/>.
15 June 2003
The London Sunday Telegraph reports that Iran is recruiting top Iran weapons scientists in Iraq and overseas. It states that an Iraqi Islamic militia the pro-Iranian Badr Brigade is helping Iraqi scientists travel across the Iraq-Iran border.
—Philip Sherwell, "Iran Recruits Saddam's Scientists To Build Long-Range Missile," 15 June 2003.
15 June 2003
US intelligence officials claim that North Korea is exporting missiles to Iran by air because one of the North Korean ships that were loaded with missiles was intercepted in December on its way to Yemen. The officials add that six Iranian cargo aircrafts have been spotted leaving Sunan airport in Pyongyang since April. They believe the planes contained disassembled Rodong missiles, similar to the missiles that North Korea exported to Pakistan in 1998.
—Yi Ch'ol-hui, "ROK's Chungang Ilbo Cites ROK, US Intelligence on DPRK Missile Exports to Iran," Chungang Ilbo (Seoul), 16 June 2003; in FBIS document KPP20030616000012, 16 June 2003.
16 June 2003
In a statement agreed to at a meeting in Luxemburg, European Union foreign ministers back the calls of the IAEA for Iran to adopt the additional protocol of the NPT and allow more intrusive inspections of its nuclear program.
—"EU backs Iran nuclear inspections," BBC, 16 June 2003, in <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
16 June 2003
US officials express concerns over Russia's training of hundreds of Iranian technicians and scientists in complex nuclear processes in various Russian academic institutions.
—Nick Paton Walsh, "UK Daily Reports Russia Training Iranian Scientists," Guardian (London), 16 June 2003; in FBIS document EUP20030618000254, 16 June 2003.
16 June 2003
During the presentation of the latest IAEA report on the implementation in Iran of the NPT safeguards agreement, Mohamed El Baradei, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, states that "the report points out that Iran has failed to report certain nuclear material and activities and that cooperative actions being taken in cooperation with Iranian authorities."
—"IAEA's El Baradei: Iran Failed To Report Certain Nuclear Material, Activities," AFP (Paris), 16 June 2003; in FBIS document EUP20030616000126, 16 June 2003.
18 June 2003
Iranian officials reject the IAEA charges that Iran has failed to honor international agreements by not reporting nuclear material. Iran's ambassador to the IAEA Ali Salehi states that Iran is not prepared to allow the IAEA more intrusive inspections but would consider the matter if the IAEA avoids using the "language of force" in its statement on Iran.
—Michael Adler "Ambassador to IAEA Insists Iran Fulfilled Obligations Under All NPT Provisions," AFP (Paris), 18 June 2003; in FBIS document EUP20030618000239, 18 June 2003.
19 June 2003
The IAEA derestricts a report on Iran. The report falls short of declaring Iran in violation of the NPT, It outlined three major issues:
- Iran should have been more forthcoming about the Natanz uranium enrichment facility and the Arak heavy water production plant. The existence of both of these facilities was divulged by the Iranian opposition group Mujahideen Khalq, which is on the State Department's list of terrorist organizations.
- Iran failed to report that in 1991 it purchased 1.8 tons of uranium from China.
- Earlier in June 2003 Iran prohibited inspectors from the IAEA from taking environmental samples at the Kalaye power plant.
—International Atomic Energy Agency (Vienna), Director General, "Implementation of the NPT safeguards agreement in the Islamic Republic of Iran," 19 June 2003, <http://www.iaea.org/>.
19 June 2003
A spokesman for the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry says that Russia supports the IAEA's Board of Governors' statement on Iran.
—German Solomatin, "Russian Atomic Energy Ministry Backs IAEA Statement on Iran," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 19 June 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030619000332, 19 June 2003.
20 June 2003
An Iranian official states that Iran has completed the feasibility studies and preliminary investigation regarding the construction of a second nuclear power plant in Bushehr. Mr. Ahmadi adds, "We hope that after the allocation of the necessary funds, the contract for the new power plant will be concluded before the inauguration of Bushehr power plant at the latest."
—"Iranian Official Says Study Ended, Second Nuclear Power Plant To Be Built at Bushehr," Fars News Agency (Tehran), 20 June 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030620000020, 20 June 2003.
21 June 2003
Obninsk State Technical University of Atomic Energy administrators deny Western media reports that their institution is training Iranian specialists in nuclear energy. The university director tells Interfax that the university offers the Iranians a number of three-month Russian technical language courses, no more.
—"Russian University Denies Training Iranians in Nuclear Energy," Interfax (Moscow), 21 June 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030621000017, 21 June 2003.
22 June 2003
In an interview with an Iranian newspaper, Isaqoli Ahmadinia, a member of the Iranian Majles energy committee, states that "Iran and Russia are currently discussing the construction of a second nuclear plant in Bushehr, but they have not signed a definitive contract....[S]ix power plants are being planned, estimated to be complete by 2012."
—"Iran: Deputy Comments on Plans for Second Nuclear Plant," Yas-e Now (Tehran), 22 June 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030624000081, 22 June 2003.
26 June 2003
Numerous US congressmen ask the Bush administration to utilize economic sanctions against Iran and private corporations that deal with the Iranian regime. In a congressional hearing, state department officials admit using diplomatic pressure against European governments and corporations to cancel oil and gas contracts with Iran.
—"Members of House panel call for sanctions against businesses dealing with Iran," AFP (Paris), 26 June 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
30 June 2003
Nikolai Shingarev tells ITAR-TASS that Russia and Iran have reached an agreement to set the final dates of deliveries of nuclear fuel by the end of the week. Mr. Shingarev states that the two countries atomic energy agencies chiefs "discussed in detail technical issues of the nuclear power plant construction, the schedules of work, and deliveries of equipment for the first reactor of the Iranian nuclear power plant...[T]he general contractor of the construction, the Russian company Atomstoiexport, should supply and assemble 20,000 tonnes of equipment at the Bushehr nuclear power plant by the year's end."
—German Solomatin, "Nuclear Fuel Supply Dates To be Decided by End of Iranian Visit," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 30 June 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030630000215, 30 June 2003.
30 June 2003
During his fourth visit to Iran in less than two years, British Foreign Minister Jack Straw calls on the Iranian government to sign the NPT additional protocol "unconditionally" and warned that Iranian-English relations may suffer if it does not. Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi bluntly replied in the same press conference that Iran will not make any concessions on the additional protocol until the international community made some concessions toward Iran.
—"Iran refuses to budge on nuclear inspections after Straw warning," AFP (Paris), 30 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis, in <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.
Early July 2003
The US government imposes sanctions on six companies (5 Chinese and 1 North Korean) for selling weapons technology to Iran. The sanctions include a ban on trading with and receiving assistance from the US government and are to remain in place for two years. The six companies to be sanctioned are:
- Taian Foreign Trade General Corporation of China
- Zibo Chemical Equipment Plant of China
- Liyang Yunlong Chemical Equipment Group Company of China
- China North Industries Corporation (Norinco)
- China Precision Machinery Import/Export Corporation (CPMIEC)
- Changgwang Sinyong Corporation (North Korea)
—"US punishes firms over Iran," BBC, 7 July 2003, in <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
2 July 2003
The Japanese Foreign ministry announces that it will hold bilateral talks with Iran over nuclear nonproliferation on 12 July. This will be the fourth such meeting between the Foreign Ministry director generals of Iran and Japan, and it is to be held in Tehran.
—"Japan to Hold Bilateral Nuclear Talks With Iran," Jiji Press (Tokyo), 2 July 2003; in FBIS document JPP20030702000150, 2 July 2003.
2 July 2003
Iran and the IAEA announce that Mohamed El Baradei will visit Iran on 9 July, for the second time this year. This planned visit came after the unfavorable IAEA report on Iran, after which Hassan Rowhani, the Iranian Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, invited Dr. El Baradei to visit Iran "to remove technical problems." An Iranian senior official says "I do think this means Iran is moving to sign the [additional] protocol. It is a confirmation that Iran wants to work with the agency."
—Nazila Fathi, "A U.N. Official to Visit Iran Over Nuclear Sites," New York Times, 2 July 2003.
2 July 2003
Gholam Reza Aghazadeh, Iran's atomic energy chief offers, Russia a chance to build more nuclear power stations in Iran. He states, "Beside Bushehr, we intend to build several more nuclear power stations with the overall power capacity of 6,000 megawatts, and we are offering Russia a chance to take up this opportunity."
—"Iran offers Russia chance to build more nuclear reactors," AFP (Paris), 2 July 2003; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
1 July 2003
Iranian member of Parliament Hassan Qashqavi says that Iran will sign the NPT's additional protocol only when the IAEA gives Iran a guarantee that it will provide it with nuclear know-how. He adds that if the IAEA accepts this premise Iran will have no problem accepting the additional protocol.
—"Deputy Says Iran Will Sign Additional Protocol in Return for Nuclear Technology," Tehran Times, 2 July 2003; in FBIS document IAP20030702000033, 2 July 2003.
2 July 2003
Gholam Aghazadeh, Iranian Vice-President, states after talks with the Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian Atomic Energy Minister, that he is hopeful that Russia will begin to supply Bushehr with nuclear fuel. Mr. Rumyantsev says that Russia will supply one load of 500 kilos of nuclear fuel from its Siberian storage facilities for the experimental launch of Bushehr and 10 loads of 500 kilos of nuclear fuel for the operation of the plant.
—Dmitry Vinitsky, "Russia To Supply Nuclear Fuel in Batches for Running of Bushehr Plant," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 2 July 2003; in FBIS document CEP20030702000378, 2 July 2003.
3 July 2003
Iran's nuclear chief reveals that he was assured by Russian officials that Moscow will not hold up the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant as a way to force Iran to accept the NPT's additional protocol inspections.
—Jeanne Whalen, "Russia Won't Hold Up Work On Nuclear Plant, Iran Says," Wall Street Journal, 3 July 2003.
7 July 2003
An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman confirmed that Iran has successfully conducted the final test of its Shahab-3 (shooting star) medium-range missile. This missile was first tested in 1998 and possesses a range of 810 miles. It is widely believed that the Shahab-3 was built with North Korean assistance; however, the Iranian government claims that the missile relies entirely on Iranian expertise. Due to its range, the Shahab-3 is capable of reaching Israel and Saudi Arabia. [Note: It is also capable of carrying an unconventional warhead.]
—Nazila Fathi, "Iran Confirms Final Test of a Midrange Missile," New York Times, 7 July 2003, in <http://www.nytimes.com/>.
8 July 2003
US State Department official Richard Boucher states that Iran's testing of the Shahab-3 poses a threat to the Middle East and to US interests in the region.
—"US: Iran's test of Shihab-3 missile poses threat to Mideast," Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 8 July 2003, in <http://www.haaretzdaily.com/>.
8 July 2003
Arye Herzog, head of the Homa Missile Defense Program at the Israeli Defense Ministry, states that Israel's Arrow anti-ballistic missile system is fully capable of defending Israel from Iran's Shahab-3 Missile. He tells IDF radio, "We are fully capable of dealing with whatever the Iranians have today, which is the Shahab-3."
—"Defense Official: Arrow System Provides 'Full Protection' Against Iran's Shahab-3," IDF Radio (Tel Aviv), 8 July 2003; in FBIS document GMP20030708000028, 8 July 2003.
9 July 2003
At a news conference, Alireza Jafarzadeh, a spokesman to the Iranian opposition group NCRI, reveals the existence of a new Iranian nuclear complex northwest of Tehran. According to Mr. Jafarzadeh, the site—known as the Kohladouz complex—is under more direct military control than other sites that were previously revealed by NCRI and confirmed by the IAEA. In addition, Mr. Jafarzadeh states that information on the site came from the group Mujahedeen Khalq and that the complex is hidden among warehouses and workshops for building tanks and armored personnel carriers.
—Brian Knowlton, "Iranian Exiles Describe Newly Found Nuclear Site," International Herald Tribune, 9 July 2003.
5 August 2003
A Japanese newspaper claims North Korea is in talks to export its Taepodong-2 long-range ballistic missile to Iran and to jointly develop nuclear warheads with Tehran. They would also send experts to Iran to provide them with assistance on missile technology. [Note: The Taepodong-2 has a range of over 6,000km (3,700 miles)].
—"North Korea Plans to Export Missiles to Iran," Reuters, 5 Aug 2003, in <http://www.nytimes.com/>.
Mid-August 2003
Britain, Germany, and France offers to assist Iran with technology, if Iran stops its disputed nuclear fuel enrichment program and agrees to sign the Additional Protocol to the NPT.
—Paula Taylor and Louis Charbonneau, "E.U. big three offer Iran carrot for nuclear deal," Reuters, 19 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
26 August 2003
IAEA Inspectors find traces of highly enriched uranium (HEU) at Iran's Natanz nuclear plant. Iranian officials claim the traces came from equipment imported from "another country" [unidentified] which included centrifuges used to enrich uranium and machinery associated with them. Mark Gwozdecky, a spokesman for the IAEA says Iran has "a large and sophisticated nuclear program".
—"Iran nukes still a concern-IAEA," CNN, 26 Aug 2003, <http://www.cnn.com/>.
29 August 2003
IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei wants Iran to sign on to the Additional Protocol of the NPT to allow the IAEA inspections at any time. "If you have nothing to hide, there is no reason not to be transparent." —BBC (London), HARDtalk television interview, 29 Aug 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
Early September 2003
US Secretary of State, Colin Powell says, "We never asked Russia to not build the plant at Bushehr. That's strange. When I was in the Clinton administration, we told the Russians, and more than once, not to build that nuclear power plant in Iran. When they persisted, we pushed them to narrow the scope of their cooperation. In this we succeeded." The stalemate between U.S. and Russia over Iran has prevented them from working together on projects that may inhibit proliferation.
—Rose Gottemoeller, "Breaking the Stalemate in Iran," New York Times, 7 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
8 September 2003
The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) praises Iran's efforts in complying with IAEA requests, and encourages Iran to continue handling the matter "with full transparency" in an IAEA Board of Governors meeting in Vienna. The NAM also reiterates that member states have "basic an inalienable rights to develop atomic energy for peaceful purposes."
—Statement by NAM, IAEA Board of Governors Meeting, Vienna, Austria, 8 September 2003, <http://www.iaea.org/>.
9 September 2003
Regarding the Iranian issue, ElBareidi states that the finding of different levels of enrichment and different isotopes raises questions over where the enrichment took place. He claims this information needs to be clarified along with the origin of any equipment involved. In regards to testing of centrifuges, IAEA experts claim "testing with nuclear material must have taken place for Iran to reach the stage that it has." Various scenarios that need to be examined include contamination of equipment, importation of enriched uranium, enrichment inside Iran and possibly a combination of the above. ElBaradei seeks answers by end of November.
—Director General's Remarks to the IAEA Board of Governors during its meeting on 9 September 2003. <http://www.iaea.org/>.
12 September 2003
IAEA adopts a resolution to urge Iran to comply with their requests for full transparency by the end of October. —Implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in the Islamic Republic of Iran, 12 September 2003, <http://www.iaea.org/>.
13 September 2003
US State Department spokesman Adam Ereli says, "If Iran fails to take those steps by the deadline [of October 31], that would constitute further evidence of its ongoing efforts to conceal its clandestine activities." Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Ali Akbar Salehi, accuses the United States of "having territorial ambitions in the region" and claims Iran will not accept any deadlines as it is a sovereign country.
—"US gives Iran nuclear caution," BBC (London), 13 September 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
16 September 2003
Russia's nuclear power minister says Russia and Iran moved closer to an agreement "on the return of spent nuclear fuel" from the Bushehr reactor that Russia is building Iran. The only obstacle is said to be a technical argument pertaining to environmental protection.
—George Jahn, "Russia, Iran Near Nuclear Fuel Deal," Associated Press, 16 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
17 September 2003
The United States pressures Russia over its nuclear links with Iran by sending the US arms control chief to Moscow. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Kislyak says in interview with the Vremya Novostei Daily, "I think our American colleagues understand very well that it is pointless to put pressure on us."
—"Don't Pressure us, Russian says as US arms control chief arrives in Moscow," AFP, 17 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
19 September 2003
Iranian President Mohammad Khatami declares, "We don't need atomic bombs, and based on our religious teaching, we will not pursue them...but at the same time, we want to be strong, and being strong means having knowledge and technology." John Bolton of US State Department claims that Iran, as an oil- and gas-rich country, does not need nuclear energy.
—Scott Peterson, "A push for candor on Iran nukes," Christian Science Monitor, 19 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
19 September 2003
Due to the IAEA's annual rotation of its board members, Iran's representation is replaced by Pakistan. Iran can still be present to voice concerns as an observer.
—"IAEA chooses new governing board, Iran no longer a member," AFX, 19 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
19 September 2003
Ayatollah Ahmad Janati, head of the Guardian Council of Iran and a top Iranian cleric, states that Iran should consider leaving the NPT after international pressures on its nuclear program.
—"Iranian cleric for pulling out of NPT," AFP (Paris), 19 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
20 September 2003
Tehran rejects Britain, France, and Germany's offer for technology cooperation.
—Dan De Luce, "Europeans fail to end Iranian nuclear crisis," Guardian (London), 20 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
20 September 2003
According to Reuters, Russian President Vladimir Putin claims he has proof that Western firms are "working in Iran's atomic technology sector, including dual-use technology."
—"Putin says Western firms helping Iran nuclear industry," Reuters, 20 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
20 September 2003
According to an UPI analysis, although there is a consensus amongst the reformist and right-wing figures and bodies in "seeing the [October] deadline as an affront to Iran's national dignity," divisions within Iran's political circle have come out over how to react to IAEA's October deadline. Different groups show dissenting views on cooperation.
—"Analysis: Splits in Iran on nuke ultimatum," United Press International, 20 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
21 September 2003
Iranian Guardian Council leader Jannati%2‰again urges Iran's withdrawal from the NPT. "What is wrong with considering this treaty on nuclear energy and pulling out of it? North Korea withdrew." According to The Telegraph (London), many fundamentalist clerics like Jannati share these views after looking to neighboring countries like Israel and Pakistan, which have not signed onto the NPT, and India, which has decided not to sign the protocol.
—David Wastell and Behzad Farsian, "Iranian cleric urges Tehran to defy West's nuclear curbs," Telegraph (London), 21 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
21 September 2003
Iran Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hamid Reza Asefi claims, "I do not believe Iran will reach a dead end which could lead to sanctions." He further says Iran's nuclear activities were for peaceful ends and "totally transparent."
—"Iran can avoid U.N. sanctions over nukes–official," Reuters, 21 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
22 September 2003
According to the Associated Press, Ali Akbar Salehi, Iran's representative to the IAEA, claims Iran will "scale back its cooperation" with the IAEA in response to the October deadline. Iran claims its nuclear programs are meant to generate electricity and any contaminated equipment found was due to previous ownership before its import.
—Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran to Scale Back Cooperation with U.N.," Associated Press, 22 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
23 September 2003
According to Agence France Presse, IAEA spokeswoman Melissa Fleming claims, "The first [IAEA] mission is leaving on Friday [to Iran] and what will follow will be a lot of talks and inspections." Fleming says the IAEA is "moving forward with a very detailed and intense plan of work," regardless of Salehi's comments, since nothing official had been sent to the IAEA on Iran's behalf.
—"IAEA mission heading to Iran Friday," AFP (Paris), 23 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
24 September 2003
An analysis by the Christian Science Monitor during the week of Iran's Military Parade claims Iran and the United States are engaged in supportive "quiet discourse," despite the hostility between the two countries.
—Scott Peterson, "Hostile in public, Iran seeks quiet discourse with US," Christian Science Monitor, 24 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
25 September 2003
US President Bush exclaims that the world must unite to denounce Iran's nuclear weapons program. UN inspectors find highly enriched uranium in Iran this same day at a second site there. The trace elements were said to be enough to "supply the fissile material for a nuclear bomb."
—Alex Keto, "Bush: World Must Unite to Condemn Iran's Nuclear Program," Dow Jones, 25 September 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
25 September 2003
UN nuclear inspectors find traces of highly enriched weapons-grade uranium at a second site in Iran. Diplomats say minute quantities of uranium were found last month at the Kalaye Electric Company on the southern outskirts of the capital, Tehran. The IAEA's board of governors has set a 31 October deadline for Iran to disprove US claims that it is secretly trying to make nuclear weapons.
—"Iran under pressure over uranium 'find'," BBC (London), 25 Aug 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
25 September 2003
In addressing the 58th UN General Assembly session in New York, Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi claims that Iran is adamant about following its peaceful nuclear program. "Iran's nuclear program is clearly for peaceful purposes, especially for generation of 7,000 megawatts of energy within framework of the national development plan's target by the year 2020."
—"FM: Tehran is ready to follow its peaceful nuclear program," IRNA (Tehran), 26 September 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
30 September 2003
US President Bush and Russian leader Putin meet to discuss the Iranian nuclear weapons program.
—"Bush and Putin discuss Iranian nuclear weapons today," Al-Jazeera (in Arabic), 26 September 2003, <http://www.aljazeera.net/>.
30 September 2003
IAEA Head Mohamed ElBaradei sets expectations as a team of senior IAEA inspectors prepare for their visit to Iran on 2 November. ElBaradei reassures that the 31 October deadline is "decisive and non-negotiable."
—"ElBaradei Outlines Expectations as Inspectors Depart to Iran," WorldAtom Report, IAEA, 30 September 2003, <http://www.iaea.org/>.
30 September 2003
The Arab states of Egypt, Syria, and Saudi Arabia criticize the IAEA of being pro-Israel in their dealings with Iran by singling them out and therefore causing a serious threat to the stability of the entire region. According to the BBC, the Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal claims at a UN General Assembly, "What surprises us is that at a time when the [IAEA] is intensifying its efforts and monitoring [NPT] member countries, we see that it continues to ignore the rejection of Israel in not joining the treaty."
—"Nuclear watchdog 'ignores Israel'," BBC (London), 30 September 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
1 October 2003
According to the Tehran Times, Iranian Majlis Vice-Speaker Mohammad-Reza Khatami exclaims, "the world must have trust in us that we are planning to use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes." Khatami states that Iran's nuclear activities are well within the guidelines of international treaties and that Tehran has no obligation to go beyond them.
—"Iran Not Obligated to Go Beyond International Nuclear Treaties: MP," Tehran Times, 1 October 2003, http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
1 October 2003
Iranian government spokesman Abdollah Ramezanzadeh says the government is part of a multi-party decisionmaking committee that is examining options of how to deal with the IAEA's deadline and whether or not to sign the additional protocol to NPT.
—"Government, only one in multi-party decision making over protocol," IRNA (Tehran), 1 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
1 October 2003
Iran's Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi declares Iran's decision to cooperate with the IAEA.
—"Kharrazi declares further cooperation with IAEA," IRNA (Tehran), 1 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
1 October 2003
According to an Iranian official, IAEA Deputy Director for Department of Safeguards Pierre Goldschmidt leads a team to Tehran for discussions on the implementation of safeguards.
—"Two IAEA officials to leave for Tehran Wednesday evening: source," IRNA (Tehran), 1 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/">http://www.irna.ir>.
3 October 2003
Iran appoints a five-member team to determine Iran's stance toward the IAEA's deadline. The members are Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi; Minister of Information Ali Yunessi; Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani; Secretary of the High National Security Council Hassan Rowhani; and the supreme religious leader's adviser for international affairs, Ali Velayati.
—"Iran Names Panel on Nuclear Inspections," New York Times, 3 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
5 October 2003
The IAEA conducts inspections of the Kolahdouz military base in Iran. Al-Hayat claims no traces of uranium enrichment or other nuclear activity were found.
—"First Iranian nuclear site inspected," United Press International, 9 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
5 October 2003
Dialogue is established between the United States and Iran even though tensions between the two countries run high over the question of Iran's nuclear program.
—Jason Burke and Dan de Luce, "US and Iran in secret peace talks," Observer, 5 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/.>.
5 October 2003
Ali Akbar Salehi, Iran's representative to the IAEA, claims that Iran does not consider itself bound to the 31 October deadline, as it has not formally accepted the resolution; however, Iran still intends to cooperate with the IAEA and give answers as quickly as possible.
—"Iran says 'not bound' by IAEA deadline, but promises quick answers," AFP (Paris), 5 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
6 October 2003
Iran says it will provide a detailed list of imported parts for its uranium enrichment program and show UN inspectors the location where they are stored. "These are items which were not bought officially, they were bought through intermediaries and it is not possible to trace intermediaries," says Iran's Ali Akbar Salehi.
—"Iran releases nuclear data," BBC (London) 6 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
6 October 2003
Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) Spokesman Saber Zaimian says the two-day talks with IAEA's representatives in Tehran were positive. "It seems possible to reach the two sides favorable answers earlier than the predicted time regarding mutual trust between Iran and the agency."
—"Iran's cooperation with IAEA favorable as before: IAEO spokesman," IRNA (Tehran), 6 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
6 October 2003
Kamal Kharrazi says, "We will not allow anyone to deprive us of our right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, and in particular our right to enrich fuel for our power stations." He further confirms Iran's commitment to the NPT and reassures cooperation.
—"Defying IAEA ultimatum, Iran sticks to right to enrich uranium," AFP (Paris), 6 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
7 October 2003
Khatami claims that due to popular support by its people, Iran does not need weapons of mass destruction nor nuclear armament.
—"Popular Government Needs NO WMD: Khatami," Mehr News Agency, 7 Ocotober 2003, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
7 October 2003
Iran's Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), Rowhani, makes statement against the United State's abuse of the IAEA and biased actions toward Iran. "This is the worst kind of interference in international law and order when a specialized United Nations agency and its legal authority are exploited for political objective of the United States," says Rowhani in an address to the 18th Conference of the Friday Prayers Leaders from across the country.
—"Washington Opposed to an Independent and Prosperous Iran: SNSC Chief," IRNA (Tehran), 7 8 October 2003, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
7 October 2003
Greek Foreign Minister George Papandreou says it is Iran's absolute right to use peaceful nuclear energy in the framework of international regulations and urged EU's cooperation with Iran.
—"Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy Iran's Absolute Right: Greek FM," IRNA (Tehran), 9 October 2003, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
8 October 2003
Iran's President Khatami claims, "We are ready to do everything that does not damage our national security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, even accepting the additional protocol."
—"Iran's president says to allay all concerns about nuclear program but national security is off limits," Associated Press, 8 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
8 October 2003
Iranian envoy, Gholamreza Shafei, in response to news that Iran will sign a nuclear agreement with Russia that would allow the construction of an $800 million nuclear power plant, Iran's first, to go live in 2005, says to the ITAR-TASS news agency, "Negotiations are taking place to iron out some technical issues. We hope that the protocol will be signed very shortly either in Tehran or Moscow."
—"Iran expects to sign final nuclear deal with Russia," AFP (Paris), 8 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
8 October 2003
Khatami states Iran will extend all cooperation to the IAEA but will continue to enrich uranium.
—"Iran will cooperate fully with IAEA but will resume its uranium enrichment," AFP (Paris), 8 October 2003, in <http://www.daralhayat.com/>.
9 October 2003
US Undersecretary of State John Bolton says, "I think what will happen prior to October 31st is the Iranians will cooperate a little bit and the issue will be, 'Did they cooperate enough?'"
—Andrew Cawthorne, "U.S. says Iran to try to avert showdown," Reuters, 9 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
9 October 2003
IAEA Head ElBareidi says, "[Iran] has promised information will be forthcoming but it has not yet been provided. The central question is whether Iran has any [uranium] enrichment activities that we have not been informed about. On that question I haven't got satisfactory information." The statement is made as Iran is fast approaching the 31 October deadline.
—"UN nuclear agency warns Iran 'time is running out'," Financial Times (London), 9 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
10 October 2003
In efforts to protect themselves against a potential attack from Iran, the US government considers stationing defensive missiles in European countries.
—"US mulling defensive missiles against Iran in Europe," AFP (Paris), 10 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
11 October 2003
Israel's spy agency Mossad draws up pre-emptive attack plans on six suspected nuclear weapons preparation sites in Iran. Mossad claims to AFP that "complete destruction of the targets by F-16 fighter bombs [is] deemed achievable."
—"Israel ready to launch preemptive strike on nuclear sites in Iran," AFP (Paris), 11 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
13 October 2003
Iranian opposition group National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) claims there are undeclared, hidden nuclear facilities in Iran.
—Louis Charbonneau, "Exile Opposition: Iran Hiding Another Nuke Site," Reuters, 13 October 2003, <http://www.reuters.com/>.
13 October 2003
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Alexander Yakovenko confirms Russia's determination to continue its nuclear cooperation with Iran.
—"Russia continues nuclear cooperation with Iran," IRNA (Tehran), 13 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
13 October 2003
Statements of Israel's plans for pre-emptive strikes on Iranian nuclear plants, as well as strategic targeting through Navy sea operations with the help of the United States, is confirmed by high-ranking Mossad officials according to Major Israeli commentators.
—Asaad Telhami, "Mossad Involved in Leaks on Israel's Plan to Attack Iranian Nuclear Plants, Al-Hayat, 13 October 2003, <http://www.daralhayat.com/>.
13 October 2003
Iranian government spokesman Abdullah Ramezanzadeh responds to Israel's reports of planned air strikes by saying, "We are used to such foolish rhetoric from Israel and consider it not even worth replying, but still Israel knows not to mess around with us."
—"Iran warns Israel over reports of planned air strike," Haaretz, 13 October 2003, <http://www.haaretzdaily.com/>.
14 October 2003
US Foreign Secretary Jack Straw has not ruled out the use of military sanctions on Iran should it not comply with the 31 October IAEA deadline.
—Pippa Crerar, "Nuclear Iran: Straw Refuses to Rule out Military Action," The Scotsman, 14 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
14 October 2003
IAEA Spokeswoman Melissa Fleming says, "There are two phases to our work. The first phase involves Iran providing all the information to us on unresolved questions no later than October 31." The second is said to involve the verification of the information provided by them. IAEA stands firm on the deadline.
—"UN nuclear watchdog says deadline for Iran is firm," AFP (Paris), 14 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
14 October 2003
Iran's ambassador to the IAEA, Ali Akbar Salehi, in responding to an allegation that Iran had been hiding a nuclear facility near Isfahan, tells Reuters, "We have certainly not [hidden any facilities from the IAEA]." National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) opposition group head Firouz Mahvi says, "The site has been built to test centrifuges that enrich uranium."
—"Iran has no secret nuclear facilities: Official," Tehran Times, 15 October 2003, <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
16 October 2003
Britain, France, and Germany send officials to Iran to explore "last-ditch mission" to resolve Iran's reservations with accepting the 31 October deadline. A Western diplomat in Tehran says to Reuters, "There were meetings here with senior government officials from Germany, Britain, and France to follow up on the letter and to find a constructive avenue to settle this crisis peacefully."
—"EU big three exploring last-ditch Iran nuke deal," Reuters, 16 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
16 October 2003
IAEA Director-General Mohamed ElBareidi flies to Iran to attempt to avert an international crisis over its alleged nuclear weapons program. "The key issue is the enrichment program—to make sure we have seen all nuclear experiments that have taken place in Iran; that we have seen all the nuclear material in Iran," says Dr. ElBareidi to Guardian reporters.
—Ewen MacAskill and Luke Harding, "UN Nuclear agency chief flies to Iran," Guardian, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
16 October 2003
Iran's head of the parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy committee says, "Iran's case should not go before the [UN] Security Council. If allowing inspections of military sites resolves this problem, then we should do it."
—Brian Murphy, "Iran offers wider nuclear probes to avoid Security Council debate," Associated Press, 16 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
16 October 2003
IAEA Director-General Mohamed ElBareidi says he has been assured of Iran's willingness to cooperate and speed up the process of answering all of IAEA's questions on its activities during his visit to Iran.
—Jim Muir, "Iran promises nuclear answers," BBC (London), 16 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
17 October 2003
Iranian President Mohammad Khatami calls IAEA's resolution against Iran's nuclear activities unfair and unjust, when speaking in a press conference on the sidelines of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) Summit. Khatami describes development and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction "very dangerous," reiterating that the Islamic Republic has always stressed the clearing of the region and the world from such weapons.
—"Khatami terms IAEA's resolution as unfair," IRNA (Tehran), 17 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
17 October 2003
IAEA Director-General ElBareidi states that Tehran has refused to cease its uranium enrichment.
—"ElBareidi: Tehran refuses to Cease Enriching Uranium," AlJazeera (online in Arabic) 17 October 2003, <http://www.aljazeera.net/>.
17 October 2003
In the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) press conference in Malaysia, Khattami states that Iran will not end its nuclear program. Khattami also reminds that Iran was one of the first nations to support a WMD-free zone in the Middle East.
—"Tehran ready to Sign Additional Protocol," Al-Jazeera (online in Arabic) 17 October 2003, <http://www.aljazeera.net/>.
18 October 2003
Iran begins negotiations with Mohamed ElBareidi over signing of NPT's additional protocol, which would allow inspectors open access to all Iran's suspected nuclear facilities. Iranian parliament's head of the National Security and Foreign Policy committee, Mohsen Mirdamadi says, "Iran's case should not go before the Security Council. If allowing inspections of military sites resolves this problem, then we should do it."
—"Iran, IAEA Negotiate Signing of More Protocol to Treaty," Associated Press, 18 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
19 October 2003
Iran confirms reports of inviting Britain, France, and Germany to visit Tehran for discussion on resolving nuclear issue.
—"Iran Confirms EU Big Three FMs Invited to Visit Tehran," Tehran Times, 19 October 2003, <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
20 October 2003
Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi states he is hopeful of coming to a resolution on issues over Iran's nuclear activities.
—"Kharrazi hopes issues between Iran, IAEA will be resolved through negotiations," IRNA (Tehran), 20 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
20 October 2003
British Foreign Office confirms Jack Straws intent to leave for Iran to join EU counterparts on talks over assisting Iran's "civilian nuclear project."
—"EU Visits to Tehran to go ahead, UK confirms," IRNA (Tehran), 20 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
21 October 2003
Iran concedes to demands of the IAEA after talks with Britain, France, and Germany, and confirms signing of NPT's Additional Protocol, allowing the UN watchdog open and unannounced inspections. Iran also agrees to suspend all "uranium enrichment and reprocessing activities."
—"Full text: Iran declaration," BBC (London), 21 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
21 October 2003
According to Haaretz, Israel's Director of Military Intelligence Major General Aharon Ze'evi says, "by the summer of 2004, Iran will have reached the point of no return in its attempts to develop nuclear weapons."
—"Israel: Iran will soon have nuclear arms knows-how," Haaretz, 21 October 2003, <http://www.haaretzdaily.com/>.
22 October 2003
Hassan Rowhani, secretary of the Supreme National Council, states that Iran has no objections to transparency of its nuclear interests and hid portions of its legal nuclear activities due to "illegal sanctions" and an "increase in the number of embargoes," in the past. He further claims Iran has always taken initiative over signing disarmament treaties and sees creation of WMD an act that would weaken stability and security in the region and world.
—"Rowhani: Iran has been forerunner in signing disarmament treaties," IRNA (Tehran), 21 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
22 October 2003
Iranian President Khatami urges for IAEA to have an unbiased approach when dealing with Iran on nuclear issues. Khatami states, "if our security and national interests are ensured, we will have no worries over the beginning of the ratification process of the Additional Protocol."
—"Khatami calls for IAEA's impartial approach to Iran's nuclear programs," IRNA (Tehran), 22 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
22 October 2003
Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi refers to Iran-EU talks as "positive" and states, "the United States cannot ignore Iran's significant status in the region and the country's great potential in settling regional problems."
—"Kharrazi terms talks between Iran, EU ministers "positive," IRNA (Tehran), 22 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
22 October 2003
Mohsen Mirdamadi, head of the Iranian Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, noted Iran's move toward accepting the Additional Protocol as "logical." Hojatoleslam Hassan Rowhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, says that Iran has no intention of joining the additional protocol prior to 20 November.
—"Mirdamadi says Iran's decision to join NPT protocol is logical," IRNA (Tehran), 22 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
22 October 2003
German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder calls the agreement reached between Iran and three EU representatives as "good and important."
—"Schroeder calls Iran-EU agreement 'good and important," IRNA (Tehran), 22 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
22 October 2003
Various Iranian press agencies exclaim mixed feelings over leadership's decision to sign the additional protocol to the NPT.
—"Iran's nuclear move in press spotlight," 22 October 2003, BBC (London), <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
22 October 2003
Iranian Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei grants approval on agreement over signing of NPT protocol.
—"Supreme Leader approves talks on NPT Additional Protocal," IRNA (Tehran), 22 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
22 October 2003
Iran says will hand over full details on its nuclear enrichment program to the IAEA to allay concerns.
—"Iran to Provide IAEA with Key Nuke Documents," Reuters, 22 October 2003, <http://www.reuters.com/>.
22 October 2003
Iranian ultra-conservatives see Iran's move to allow tougher nuclear inspections as an "ignominious capitulation to Western pressure."
—Jim Muir, "Nuclear deal splits Iran hardliners," BBC (London) 22 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
23 October 2003
IAEA receives comprehensive documents from Iran on its past nuclear activities.
—"Iran hands over nuclear papers," BBC (London) 23 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
23 October 2003
Iran receives world support on its decision to sign protocol to NPT. Iranian representative to the IAEA says Iran is also ready to sign a protocol to a previous agreement with Russia over the return of spent fuel from Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—"World Acclaims Tehran Declaration," Tehran Times, 23 October 2003, <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
23 October 2003
Diplomats raise concerns over Iran's lack of information supplied regarding traces of highly enriched uranium and warn that it may lead to a declaration of a violation of the NPT if not cleared up by the 20 November IAEA Board of Governors meeting. Pakistan is suspected of being the most likely origin of questionable centrifuges by the diplomats.
—"Iran must clear up all concerns in UN Dossier–Diplomats," Associated Press, 23 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
24 October 2003
The United States still voices concerns over Iran's nuclear program. Colin Powell is noted as telling French journalist, "They have tried to hide their weapons program from the IAEA and the international community."
—Louis Charbonneau, "U.S. isolate on Iran nuke programme–diplomats," Reuters, 24 October 2004, <http://www.reuters.com/>.
24 October 2003
1,500 Iranian hard-line protestors gather in Tehran to denounce Iran's decision to sign additional protocol and urge withdrawal from the NPT.
—Ali Akbar Dareini, "Hard-liners hold rally to denounce Iran's nuclear agreement," Associated Press, 25 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
26 October 2003
Iran continues its uranium enrichment even though promises were made to halt it. Hamid Reza Asefi, Foreign Ministry spokesman, claims, "officials were still studying 'the modalities of a suspension'." The IAEA has said it will again review Iran's compliance on 20 November.
—"Iranians still enriching uranium," BBC (London) 26 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
27 October 2003
US intelligence sources of Iranian and Iraqi exile groups are deemed "questionable." Former IAEA weapons inspector David Albright says, "There is a drumbeat of allegations, but there's not a whole lot of solid information. It may be that Iran has not made the decision to build nuclear weapons. We have to be very careful not to overstate the intelligence."
—Robert Collier, "U.S. gleans facts on Iran from debatable source," San Francisco Chronicle, 27 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
28 October 2003
EU foreign ministers urge Iran to meet its pledge to stop uranium enrichment and allow inspections of its nuclear program. Concern is raised as Iran has still not set solid dates for these steps.
—"Iran urged to allow UN inspections," Associated Press, 28 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
28 October 2003
Iranian President Khatami urges the EU to stick by its original commitment to help them with acquiring nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
—"EU should stand by its commitments: Khatami," Tehran Times, 29 October 2003, <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
29 October 2003
The United States is ready to resume some diplomatic talks with Iran. US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage says, "We are prepared to engage in limited discussions with the government of Iran about areas of mutual interest as appropriate."
—"U.S. eyes limited talks with Iran," BBC (London), 29 October 2003, <http://www.bbc.co.uk/>.
29 October 2003
Russian Minister of Nuclear Energy Alexander Rumyanstev says Russia is ready to begin preliminary discussions on building the second phase of the Bushehr power plant in Iran. They are now at a completion rate of 80-85 percent and expect the billion dollar reactor to become operational in the first months of 2005.
—"Russian official: No obstacle in sending fuel to Bushehr plant," IRNA (Tehran), 29 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
29 October 2003
Iranian Majlis Speaker Mehdi Karroubi says the Majlis will ratify the draft on the additional NPT protocol.
—"Majlis will ratify cabinet's proposal draft on additional protocol," IRNA (Tehran), 29 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
30 October 2003
The IAEA states it will not take any action on Iran on the 31 October deadline as it is still in the process of analyzing documents handed over by the Iranian government.
—"U.N. nuclear agency won't take action as Iran deadline passes," Associated Press, 30 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
30 October 2003
In response to Armitage's comments, Iranian government spokesman, Abdullah Ramezanzadeh says, "[The US] has leveled too many false accusations against us and they should stop that. They should also unfreeze our assets and lift the sanctions."
—Nazila Fathi, "Iran Demands Concessions from U.S. in Return for Cooperation," New York Times, 30 October 2003, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.
31 October 2003
Senior Iranian cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati says although Iran has accepted to sign the additional protocol, "...Our 'red lines' still exist." He further says, "If the European party fails to live up to its commitments, the commitments that we made should be in return regarded as canceled."
—"Top cleric says Iran's 'red lines' still exist over NPT protocol," IRNA (Tehran), 31 October 2003, <http://www.irna.ir/>.
31 October 2003
IAEA Director-General ElBareidi says he hopes to have the report of the Iranian documents on whether they complied with IAEA demands out in about two weeks.
—Irwin Arieff, "Too Soon to say if Iran met UN Demands–ElBareidi," Reuters, 31 October 2003, <http://www.reuters.com/>.
1 November 2003
More protests are held in Tehran over the government's decision to sign the additional protocol to NPT, fueled by concerns raised by young Iranians over national security.
—"Protests held over Iran's Adherence to Additional Protocol," Tehran Times, 1 November 2003, <http://www.tehrantimes.com/>.
2 November 2003President Khatami expresses his support for cooperation between India, Iran and Afghanistan, stressing in particular that Iran and India should strive to establish peace, security and progress in the region. —"Khatami for Trilateral Ties Among Iran, India, Afghanistan," The Times of India, 2 November 2003.
3 November 2003
Iran's ambassador to the United Nations, Javad Zarif, declares Iran's voluntary decision to meet the obligations of the additional protocol to the NPT even pending its ratification by the Iranian parliament. Zarif calls the step a confidence-building measure, insisting however on Iran's "inalienable right" to pursue nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
—"Iran To Observe Anti-Nuclear Pact," Reuters, 3 November 2003.
3 November 2003
Hassan Rohani, head of the Supreme National Security Council, cancels a visit to Russia to discuss Iran's nuclear program. It is speculated that the cancellation is due to a coincident three-day visit to Moscow by Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.
—"Senior Iranian Official Cancels Planned Visit to Russia," Xinhua, 3 November 2003.
5 November 2003
Secretary General of the OIC Abdelouahed Belkeziz welcomes Iran's cooperation with the IAEA and its decision to sign an additional protocol to the NPT.
—"Nuclear Worries in Iran," IRNA, 6 November 2003.
5 November 2003
Ali Akbar Salehi, Iran's chief IAEA delegate, acknowledges past mistakes in reporting nuclear activities, adding however that the NPT additional protocol would be ready to sign within two weeks. Salehi also acknowledges that the promised moratorium on Iran's uranium enrichment program has yet to take effect. An unidentified senior State Department official says that Washington expects the pending IAEA report to support the U.S. position that Iran has engaged in an advanced program to produce nuclear weapons.
—"Iran Envoy Says Iran Will Sign Pact With IAEA in 2 Weeks," Associated Press, 5 November 2003.
6 November 2003
According to an unidentified senior State Department official, Russia has been pressuring Iran to open its facilities to intrusive inspections, warning that it may delay or put a halt to Russian assistance with the construction of the nuclear reactor at Bushehr if Iran does not follow through with its promises to the IAEA. However Nikolai Shingarev, spokesman for Russia's Ministry of Atomic Energy, rejects the assertion that work might stop on Bushehr, and reaffirms that Russia would in fact "do its best to expedite the process."
—"Russia Rejects U.S. Claim on Blocking Bushehr Nuclear Energy Project," IRNA, 6 November 2003; "State Department Official Credits Moscow With Helping to Restrain Iranian Nuclear Program," Associated Press, 6 November 2003.
7 November 2003
A CIA report claims that Iran has 'vigorously' pursued WMD production, seeking help variously from Russia, China, North Korea, and Europe in its efforts. Further, the semi-annual unclassified report to Congress states that the "United States remains convinced that Tehran has been pursuing a clandestine nuclear weapons program." CIA imagery suggests that Iran is burying a uranium centrifuge enrichment facility at Natanz, about 100 miles south of Tehran, presumably to protect it in case of attack.
—Tabassum Zakaria, "Iran 'Vigorously' Pursued WMD First Half 2003—CIA," Reuters, 7 November 2003.
8 November 2003
Iran's National Security Council head Rohani, speaking after meeting with IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei in Vienna, states that Tehran will be sending a letter to the IAEA next week. It will confirm Iran's intention to sign the NPT additional protocol, in addition to indicating precisely when Iran will begin implementing the agreement to cease its uranium enrichment program.
—"Iran To Confirm Nuclear Accords," BBC, 8 November 2003.
9 November 2003
The IAEA releases a report revealing Iran's admission that it had produced a small amount of plutonium and conducted tests on uranium hexafluoride, in addition to having established a uranium enrichment plant, all of which it had earlier denied. The report says that "given Iran's past pattern of concealment, it will take some time before the agency is able to conclude that Iran's nuclear program is exclusively for peaceful purposes."
—Ian Traynor, "UN Says Iran Produced Plutonium," The Guardian, 10 November 2003.
9 November 2003
In a meeting with German Ambassador Paul Maltzahn, First Vice President Mohamedreza Aref reiterates Iran's oft-proclaimed assertion of its legitimate right to pursue nuclear energy development for peaceful purposes.
—"Every State Has Right to Use Nuclear Energy for Civilian Purposes: Aref," Mehr News Agency, 10 November 2003.
10 November 2003
In Moscow, Iran nuclear affairs chief Hassan Rohani declares Iran's intention to "eliminate all concerns and fears" in the international community with the immediate temporary cessation of uranium enrichment activities. Later that day, permanent envoy to the IAEA Ali Akbar Salehi submits an official letter to IAEA chief ElBaradei, confirming Iran's readiness to sign the NPT's additional protocol, thereby allowing international inspections of its nuclear facilities. Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed the Iranian declarations, noting that Russia was willing to proceed with the delayed completion of the Bushehr reactor, which is expected to go online in Spring 2005. Rohani also mentions upcoming negotiations with Russia to discuss the building of a second nuclear reactor at Bushehr.
—"Iran Moves To Calm Nuclear Fears," BBC, 10 November 2003; "Iran Suspends Uranium Enrichment, Agrees to Closer Nuclear Inspections," AFP, 10 November 2003; "Iran Hands Report on Stopping Uranium Enrichment Activity to IAEA," IRNA, 10 November 2003.
11 November 2003
The 24-year break in relations between Egypt and Iran come to an end with over an hour-long meeting between Presidents Mubarak and Khatami at the Hotel Intercontinental in Geneva.
—"Mubarak and Khatami Meet in Geneva and Bring to an End 24 Years of Severed Relations," Dar Al-Hayat, 12 November 2003.
11 November 2003
The United States and the European troika of Germany, France, and Great Britain apparently agree that it is not clear whether Iran has fully responded to the requests of IAEA chief ElBaradei, suggesting that despite Iran's statement regarding temporary cessation of uranium enrichment activity, its definition of enrichment may be too narrow.
At the end of October, ElBaradei wrote to Iran in an attempt to clearly define the activities that required suspension. The first request, apparently undisputed, involves putting a stop to testing or operating gas centrifuges, a halt to the installation of centrifuges at Natanz, and ceasing laser enrichment and plutonium reprocessing activities. There appears to be some question however regarding Iran's response to ElBaradei's requests to cease the production and assembly of centrifuges or centrifuge components other than at Natanz, as well as halting equipment imports relevant to the program.
—Bronwen Maddox, "One Small Sliver of Hope From a Recalcitrant Tehran," The Times, 11 November 2003.
11 November 2003
Supreme National Security Council Secretary Rohani commented that the IAEA's report was generally favorable except for a criticism regarding Iran's failure to report its nuclear energy activities. Rohani affirmed that the pending IAEA Board of Governors meeting would not lead to problems for the country, assuming the deliberations were not biased.
—"EU, IAEA Know Consequences of Reneging on Tehran Declaration," Mehr News Agency, 12 November 2003.
12 November 2003
The IAEA report released today claimes no evidence of a secret weapons program in Iran but showed concern regarding its production of plutonium, often associated with bomb-making. President Khatami states that although the IAEA report was on the whole positive, it lacked balance, saying "Iran has used the plutonium for manufacturing pharmaceuticals and the IAEA experts themselves well know that such [a] negligible amount of plutonium cannot be used for making [a] bomb." Khatami asserts that the report nevertheless proved Iran's innocence regarding its alleged nuclear weapons program. Khatami concludes by saying that "Iran will never go to enrichment of uranium over the 3.5 percent [mark] which is weapons-grade," and "we understand the world's concern in this respect."
—"Iranian President Optimistic After Nuclear Report," Reuters, 12 November 2003; "President: IAEA Report on Iran Positive, With Unacceptable Parts," IRNA, 12 November 2003.
12 November 2003
Foreign Minister Kharazzi discusses Iran's cooperation with the IAEA and the EU with the representative of the current EU presidency, Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini. Kharrazi says that the IAEA report proved Iran's lack of a nuclear program and that Iran had been transparent in its dealings with the agency, adding that with its recent decisions to sign the additional protocol and suspend uranium enrichment, it was now up to Europe to fulfill its part of the agreement. Frattini commends Iran's recent positive steps, which have encouraged the EU to cooperate with Iran and "lobby for its nuclear program."
Foreign Ministry spokesman Asefi also comments on the IAEA report, stressing again Iran's efforts at transparent cooperation with the IAEA and echoing President Khatami's comments that plutonium enrichment had been effected for laboratory purposes only.
—"Kharazzi, Frattini Discuss Iran-EU Cooperation," IRNA, 12 November 2003; "Asefi Says IAEA Report 'Could Have Been Better'," IRNA, 12 November 2003.
12 November 2003
Gholamreza Aghazadeh, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO), says the topics for future IAEA Board of Governors discussions were unpredictable, since "at present all the issues related with Iran are political."
—"IAEO Head: Agenda of IAEA Board of Governors Unpredictable," IRNA, 12 November 2003.
12 November 2003
U.S. Undersecretary of State John Bolton greets the IAEA's report on Iran saying that it is "impossible to believe" and that the report in fact underscores the U.S. stance that "the massive and covert Iranian efforts to acquire sensitive nuclear capabilities make sense only as part of a nuclear weapons program." British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw strikes a less critical note in his response to the report, affirming that although the report was "very worrying in terms of what it discloses, [it] also shows a pretty high level of cooperation."
—Carol Giacomo, "U.S. Seeking Consensus Approach With Allies on Iran," Reuters, 12 November 2003; Straw Breaks Ranks With U.S. Over Iran," Reuters, 12 November 2003.
13 November 2003
Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazzi begins a two-day visit to Tokyo to talk about its nuclear progr | 
