WANA (Feb 20) – Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran’s nuclear program is outdated and that a new framework for an agreement with Iran should be pursued.

 

Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo, Grossi said, “The JCPOA is an empty shell. I don’t think anyone believes it is currently playing a role. I think it was an agreement designed for a specific time. At present, regardless of what one thinks about its advantages or disadvantages, in technological terms, it has been completely replaced.”

 

He emphasized that the agreement no longer meets its objectives. According to Grossi, the text of the previous agreement contains outdated information, including details on the types of centrifuges used by Iran.

 

He also mentioned that in his meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, both sides agreed that “the philosophy of the JCPOA remains valid,” meaning the concept of limiting Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for incentives can still be pursued.

 

Grossi noted that the P5+1 negotiation format is no longer viable due to various disputes but emphasized that the IAEA is open to a potential new approach.

 

The JCPOA was signed in 2015 between Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—plus Germany. However, in 2018, U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement and reinstated all U.S. sanctions that had been lifted under the deal.

 

In response, Iran’s parliament passed the Strategic Action Plan to Lift Sanctions in 2020, which mandated certain steps, including ending IAEA inspections beyond the safeguards agreement under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

 

Grossi also remarked, “I think we will see further changes. Donald Trump has indicated he wants to return to the agreement, and Europe they are also looking for a formula for a new deal. The question is how because the P5+1 framework is no longer feasible.”

 

He noted that his last visit to Tehran in November was constructive and that the IAEA maintains regular consultations with Iran’s Foreign Ministry.

 

Grossi stated, “I think it is clear to everyone that without the IAEA, any agreement would be meaningless—just a piece of paper.”

 

He mentioned that: “Technical measures must be implemented and guaranteed to reduce the likelihood of nuclear weapons production. Iran must prove that it is not seeking nuclear weapons. Of course, we trust and have confidence in everyone, but we must verify the statements we hear ourselves. We hope to reach that stage.”