The U.N. General Assembly has approved a global treaty designed to combat nuclear terrorism.
A resolution passed Wednesday calls on nations to sign and adopt the treaty, which 22 nations must ratify before it comes into force.
The treaty would require governments to prosecute or extradite those who illegally possess nuclear devices and materials. The text also calls for countries to cooperate and exchange information.
Passage came after the United States and Iran withdrew proposed amendments to the text.
The United States had wanted to add language saying the peaceful use of nuclear materials should not be used as a cover for developing weapons. That was clearly aimed at Iran, which Washington accuses of having a secret nuclear weapons program.
Iran, which says its nuclear program is peaceful, had pushed for language approving the exchange of nuclear equipment and materials for peaceful purposes.
Some information for this report provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.