WANA (Aug 29) – Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), described the decision of the three European countries to trigger the snapback mechanism as “political” and stressed that Iran cannot impose selective conditions on inspections.

 

In an interview with Radio France Internationale’s podcast, Grossi said: “All political decisions are like that—avoidable or unavoidable. In the end, it is a political decision, and it must be understood as such. I think the position of France, the United Kingdom, and Germany was clear, and now it has been put into effect.”

 

Referring to the start of the 30-day review period of the snapback process, he added: “This mechanism ensures that no Russian or Chinese veto in the Security Council can block the reimposition of sanctions. The Europeans felt a sense of urgency because Russia holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council in October.”

New mural at Tehran’s Enghelab Square: Iran’s next-generation centrifuges and nuclear capabilities, accompanied by the slogan “Knowledge is Power.” 27th Aug 2025. Social Media / WANA News Agency

New mural at Tehran’s Enghelab Square: Iran’s next-generation centrifuges and nuclear capabilities, accompanied by the slogan “Knowledge is Power.” 27th Aug 2025. Social Media / WANA News Agency

On cooperation with Tehran, the IAEA chief noted: “We have had contacts with Iran. There are reactions at different levels, including the government and parliament, and in parliament the more conservative voices are louder. Iran says the return of sanctions would make our work much more difficult, but I am trying to keep my own course.”

 

Grossi further emphasized: “Access to all sites in Iran is absolutely essential. There is no such thing as a selective inspection regime. Iran cannot say, ‘Don’t come to Natanz or Isfahan because they have been attacked.’ At those very sites, there is 60% enriched uranium that could potentially be used for weapons production. Therefore, the presence of inspectors is necessary to ensure that this material remains under control.”

 

These remarks came as Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated: “The entry of IAEA inspectors into Iran was decided by the Supreme National Security Council and solely for the purpose of supervising the fuel replacement at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. No final agreement text on a new cooperation framework has been approved.”

WANA - Arak nuclear facility after U.S. strike

Arak nuclear facility after U.S. strike. Social media/ WANA News Agency