Iran scores diplomatic victory over US by by being elected onto steering committee of UN nuclear watchdog IAEA. The US envoy Preston Wells Griffith 111 (no less) had warned “Electing Iran to the IAEA committee, just days after its non-compliance was referred to the United Nations Security Council, would be beyond shameful and an embarrassment to the credibility of this body”. Iran emerged victorious in a secret ballot, with 44 countries backing the nomination against 35 that sided with the US’s position. Forty-two nations abstained. Trump’s ability to alienate friends and potential allies no matter the issue continues unabated.