WANA (Sep 23) – Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stressed in separate interviews with international media that Iran’s cooperation with the Agency should not be conditioned on the activation of the “snapback” mechanism, but rather remain permanent and sustainable.

 

Speaking with Al Jazeera, Grossi described the possible re-imposition of international sanctions on Iran as “complex and difficult,” but said this would not necessarily mean the collapse of nuclear negotiations. He added: “There must be a distinction between the snapback mechanism and Iran’s relationship with the Agency. This relationship should remain permanent.” Grossi also pointed to ongoing diplomatic efforts between Iran, the European trio, and the United States to find a path forward.

WANA - Arak nuclear facility after U.S. strike

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

The IAEA chief referred to the recent attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, noting that they had caused serious damage to infrastructure and affected inspections. However, he underlined that, as a member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), Tehran still has obligations toward the international community.

 

In another interview with PBS, Grossi clarified that Iran has not formally announced any suspension of the Cairo Agreement – a framework reached recently between Tehran and the Agency after the June attacks to resume inspections. “We know different voices in Iran speak of suspending the deal, but nothing official has been communicated to the Agency so far,” he said.

Cairo Agreement between Iran and IAEA

Cairo Agreement between Iran and IAEA. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Commenting on Iran’s stockpiles of enriched uranium following the attacks, Grossi stated: “We do not have precise information yet, but we believe a significant portion of the material remains buried under the debris of the facilities.” He confirmed that inspections in Iran have already started, including visits to the Bushehr nuclear power plant and a research reactor.

 

Grossi emphasized that Iran is cooperating with the IAEA, though not all monitoring requirements have been met. He explained that oversight of the damaged facilities must proceed step by step, requiring technical clarification and joint efforts.

 

Concluding his remarks, the IAEA Director General acknowledged his international responsibilities and confirmed that he may run for the position of UN Secretary-General. “The Agency’s work in cases such as Ukraine, Iran, and Fukushima has not always been one hundred percent successful, but it has been impactful. I feel a responsibility to continue facing such critical challenges,” he said.