Iran Steps Up Feud With UN Nuclear Watchdog on Espionage Claim

Iran is escalating its fight with the United Nations nuclear watchdog, accusing its inspectors of slander and presenting sloppy evidence, according to a legal brief compiled by the Islamic Republic and circulated among diplomats days before a key meeting in Vienna.

The note shows tensions are rising between Tehran and the International Atomic Energy Agency ahead of a gathering at the body that starts on June 9. Europe and the US are drafting a resolution of censure which would find Iran in non-compliance with its international obligations, according to a senior Western official, who asked not to be identified while discussing confidential information.