Iran denies IAEA inspectors access to nuclear sites despite new agreement
Tehran pushed back Wednesday against claims from the UN’s nuclear watchdog that its inspectors would soon resume monitoring inside the country, insisting that no such access has been granted under a newly signed cooperation framework.
The International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, announced Tuesday it had reached a deal with Iran to restore cooperation that broke down after the outbreak of war with Israel in June.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told the agency’s Board of Governors in Vienna that the understanding “covers all facilities and installations in Iran” and establishes procedures for inspections, including reporting on sites damaged in recent attacks.
But Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi contradicted that description, telling state television the agreement does not open the door to visits at nuclear sites.
“No access is provided for inspectors under this framework. The scope of such access will be determined only in future negotiations,” he said.
Grossi nevertheless expressed cautious optimism, saying the two sides would resume engagement “in a respectful and comprehensive way.”
He acknowledged obstacles ahead but stressed that “we now know the steps that must be taken.”
Iran denies IAEA inspectors access to nuclear sites despite new agreement
