EU welcomes US-Iran agreement, calls on Tehran to cooperate with IAEA

TEHRAN, Iran — BRUSSELS — The European Union welcomed an agreement reached between the United States and Iran, describing it as a positive step toward easing regional tensions. The bloc stressed that freedom of navigation at sea and maritime security are essential to global trade and energy supply. A draft European Council summit statement calls on Iran to return to full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and to honor its commitments under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The draft says Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon is unacceptable. The EU said diplomatic efforts must continue to ensure the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program. It urged all sides to keep channels of dialogue and negotiation open to strengthen regional security and stability.