The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has made progress in talks with Iran regarding the resumption of nuclear site inspections, according to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.
Grossi expressed hope for a successful conclusion within the next few days, stating, “Progress has been made… It is my sincere hope that within the next few days it will be possible to come to a successful conclusion of these discussions.”
However, he warned that “there is still time, but not much,” without specifying the exact timeframe.
The IAEA had been seeking to resume inspections of Iran’s nuclear sites since Tehran suspended cooperation with the agency in June, following a 12-day war between Israel and Iran.
The war saw Israel and the US bomb cities across Iran, including the Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities.
Iran’s decision to change its cooperation with the IAEA was partly driven by anger over the agency’s censure of Iran’s nuclear program and its failure to condemn Israeli and US attacks.
Grossi confirmed that the IAEA had no information on the status or whereabouts of Iran’s stock of highly enriched uranium since the Israeli attacks on June 13.
“I believe there is a general understanding that by and large, the material is still there. But, of course, it needs to be verified. Some could have been lost,” he said. The IAEA chief also noted that there were no indications of major movement of material.
Meanwhile, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom triggered a mechanism to reimpose sanctions on Iran after a series of meetings failed to reach an agreement on the Iranian nuclear program.
The three European countries, known as the E3, had been warning Tehran that UN sanctions could be reimposed by October when a 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and major powers expires.
Iran has expressed willingness to negotiate with the IAEA but has emphasized that it will not succumb to pressure. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated, “willing to negotiate based on our national interest and inalienable rights, but not ready to negotiate under pressure and intimidation.”
The Iranian government has also stressed that any future inspection of its nuclear sites needs approval from the Supreme National Security Council.
The ongoing talks between the IAEA and Iran highlight the complexities of nuclear diplomacy and the challenges of verifying compliance with international agreements.
As the deadline for a potential agreement draws near, the international community remains watchful, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the standoff.
