Only Diplomacy with Verification Can Resolve Iran Nuclear Issue
WANA (Jun 09) – IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said he has been closely engaged with Iran and the United States in recent months, supporting bilateral negotiations aimed at ensuring the peaceful nature of Tehran’s nuclear program. He emphasized that diplomacy, backed by strong verification measures, is the only viable path forward.
Grossi warned that Iran’s continued accumulation of over 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium poses serious proliferation concerns. He noted this development significantly complicates unresolved issues and cannot be ignored by the Agency.
He also criticized Iran’s decision to halt implementation of the modified Code 3.1 of its Safeguards Agreement, claiming it limits the IAEA’s ability to verify the peaceful intent of Iran’s nuclear program. According to Grossi, this move violates Iran’s legal obligations under Article 39 of its safeguards agreement.
The clause known as Modified Code 3.1 requires Iran to inform the Agency before deciding to construct a new nuclear facility and to provide the Agency with its preliminary design information.
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The Islamic Republic of Iran has previously announced that it has suspended implementation of this clause due to the unlawful withdrawal of the United States from the JCPOA and in accordance with the Strategic Action Law to Lift Sanctions and Protect the Interests of the Iranian Nation.
Presenting his latest quarterly report, Grossi said the document offers a comprehensive update on outstanding and current issues related to Iran’s nuclear program, in line with a resolution passed by the IAEA Board of Governors last November.
He alleged that Iran had failed to adequately explain traces of uranium found at undeclared sites, either by not responding or by offering technically insufficient answers. He said the Agency is not in a position to confirm whether the materials remain outside safeguards.
Despite Iran’s previous cooperation with the Agency, Grossi urged Tehran to fully and effectively engage with the IAEA. Until unresolved safeguards-related issues are addressed, he said, the Agency cannot verify the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear activities.
Grossi also highlighted his recent visit to Egypt, where he met with senior officials, including Iran’s foreign minister. He thanked Egypt for its constructive role in the ongoing efforts. He noted that the IAEA plays a crucial, impartial role and would be indispensable in verifying any future agreement.
He concluded by expressing hope that continued engagement by Iran and the U.S., guided by political courage and wisdom, would lead to a successful resolution. He said stabilizing Iran’s nuclear program would bring the Middle East closer to peace and prosperity.
Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, attended an exhibition showcasing Iran’s latest achievements in nuclear technology at the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) on April 17, 2025. Social media/ WANA News Agency