Iran stops snap nuclear inspections

A state-run Iranian newspaper is urging caution in the nuclear dispute with the West.

Warning that radical actions could lead to the country’s isolation.

The message comes after Tehran ended snap inspections by the U.N. on its nuclear activities.

At midnight on Monday (February 22) Iran ended the agreement that allowed the International Atomic Energy Agency to carry out short-notice inspections.

But they will still allow “necessary” monitoring by U.N. inspectors for up to three months.

Hardline Iranian lawmakers protested that decision - saying it broke the law.

A law passed in parliament states inspections should end from Tuesday (23 February) if sanctions on the country were not lifted – an apparent effort to pressure the U.S.

The state-run daily is critical of the protests.

The paper says Iran must tread carefully as tough action might help build a consensus against Iran.

On Monday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Iran might enrich uranium up to 60% purity if the country needed it.

While also repeating a denial of any Iranian intent to seek nuclear weapons.

A U.S. State Department spokesman said Khamenei's comments "sounds like a threat".

Washington says it is ready to talk to Iran about both nations returning to the 2015 nuclear deal abandoned by former President Donald Trump.