IAEA urges Iran to resume nuclear site inspections amid Western resolution push

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog, Rafael Grossi, has called on Iran to "re-engage" and allow inspections at nuclear sites that were bombed a year ago. This appeal comes as the U.S. and its allies are pressing for a resolution that would demand Iran provide information regarding its enriched uranium and grant access to relevant sites. Tehran, however, has issued a warning against coercion, with a senior Iranian lawmaker stating that the Islamic Republic would respond severely to any provocations. This lawmaker cautioned that any miscalculation against Iran would be met with a much more severe and regrettable response than previous operations.

In a separate development concerning nuclear facilities, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant has had its power supply restored. The Ferrosplavnaya-1 power line, which supplies the plant, was reconnected following a temporary ceasefire that was brokered by the IAEA. Russian officials have accused Ukraine of conducting a drone attack that violated this truce.

On the international climate front, the European Union is preparing a new strategy for the COP31 climate summit. The EU plans to adopt a "shorter, sharper and more strategic" approach, focusing on fewer, more clearly defined goals. The bloc also intends to build pre-summit alliances to overcome challenges encountered in past negotiations. This strategy is designed to address global energy supply disruptions, which are exacerbated by current geopolitical conflicts.

Airline industry news indicates that Emirates anticipates receiving its first Boeing 777X jet by mid-2025. However, progress on engine improvements for the Airbus A350-1000, developed by Rolls-Royce, remains stalled, according to airline President Tim Clark.