IAEA certifies Iran JCPOA compliance US and EU lift nuclear sanctions on Implementation Day

IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano announces that Iran has completed the steps required by the JCPOA, including removing two-thirds of its centrifuges, reducing its enriched uranium stockpile by 97%, and dismantling the Arak heavy water reactor core. The U.S., EU, and UN immediately lift nuclear-related sanctions. Iran gains access to more than $100 billion in previously frozen assets. The Obama administration calls the verification a diplomatic achievement. Critics argue Iran retains enrichment infrastructure.