Vienna: Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has called for an urgent agreement with Iran to resume nuclear inspections, stressing that prolonged delays could undermine global confidence in Iran’s nuclear program. The appeal comes after Israeli and U.S. airstrikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities in June, raising concerns about transparency and verification.
Since the airstrikes on June 13, the IAEA has not received updated information from Tehran regarding its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Grossi warned that the situation “cannot go on for months on end,” highlighting the need for swift cooperation. He indicated that the agency hopes to finalize an inspection agreement within the coming days, ideally before the end of the week.
Iran has enacted legislation requiring that its Supreme National Security Council approve any future inspections, effectively putting a temporary hold on full cooperation with the IAEA. While inspections have resumed at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Grossi emphasized that this facility poses minimal proliferation risk and does not allow for a comprehensive assessment of Iran’s broader nuclear activities.
The IAEA chief underscored that transparent inspections are vital for maintaining international trust in Iran’s nuclear program, which Tehran insists is strictly for peaceful purposes. Grossi’s call for a rapid agreement reflects the agency’s concern that delays could hinder verification efforts, potentially fueling regional tensions and international apprehension.
Efforts to resume inspections are seen as crucial not only for monitoring Iran’s nuclear commitments but also for addressing wider concerns about proliferation in the Middle East. Grossi’s statements signal the IAEA’s determination to secure timely access to Iran’s nuclear sites and reinforce the importance of accountability in global non-proliferation efforts.