Vienna : The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, said on Friday that talks between the United States and Iran are moving closer to a possible agreement on a broad framework concerning Iran’s nuclear programme.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors, Grossi said the agency is not directly involved in the negotiations but remains in continuous contact with both sides.
He noted that discussions appear to be converging on an initial structure that could define the management of nuclear issues while allowing additional time to resolve technical matters.
He said the emerging understanding appears to focus on establishing a framework or organizational mechanism that would help address outstanding concerns in a phased manner.
Grossi reiterated that the IAEA is working to restore full verification activities in Iran and stressed that Tehran’s obligations under its agreements with the agency remain in place.
He highlighted that inspection access and information sharing continue to be key challenges, although some monitoring activities are still taking place at selected sites designated by Iranian authorities.
He explained that the situation remains complex, particularly regarding Iran’s obligations to provide access for inspections, adding that operational conditions are affected by ongoing security considerations.
Grossi also pointed out that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains a central issue in any future arrangement. He said possible options being considered include removing the material from Iran, diluting it, or keeping it under strict international monitoring, with final decisions resting with political authorities. He emphasized that immediate verification by IAEA inspectors on the ground remains a priority.
Ahead of the Board meeting, Grossi also raised concerns about the safety of nuclear facilities during conflicts, stressing that such sites must not be targeted under any circumstances.
He reiterated during a recent regional visit that attacks on nuclear facilities are unacceptable and warned of serious risks, including environmental damage and potential radiation exposure, if such sites are struck.
Grossi emphasized that the IAEA applies uniform standards globally without exception, stating that any attack on nuclear infrastructure is strictly unacceptable.
He concluded by stressing that diplomacy and dialogue remain the only sustainable path forward for resolving nuclear-related disputes and ensuring global safety and stability.
