IAEA Closes Decade-Long Probe Of Iran's Nuclear Program

The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has closed the books on a decade-long investigation of allegations that Iran had tried to develop nuclear weapons in violation of its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

The completion of the long-running probe on December 15 removes an important obstacle to implementing the landmark nuclear deal reached between Tehran and six world powers in July.

A resolution approved by the 35-nation board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) declares that the investigation was "implemented in accordance with the agreed schedule” and that this "closes the board’s consideration of the matter."

The resolution comes two weeks after an IAEA report strongly suggested that Iran once had a secret nuclear weapons program.

The resolution also states that the IAEA will continue to police Iran's actions to ensure that Tehran doesn't launch a fresh effort to develop nuclear weapons.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP