International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi stated on Wednesday that IAEA inspectors will gain access to Iran's uranium enrichment sites, contradicting claims by Iranian officials. Speaking to reporters at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, Grossi emphasized that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the United States and Iran leaves no room for ambiguity regarding inspections.
Grossi Cites Signed MoU as Binding
"I can understand political statements, they are part of the reality, but the fundamental thing I would like to remind you and draw your attention to is that there has been a Memorandum of Understanding, signed by both presidents," Grossi said, as quoted by EuroNews. The framework deal, he explained, "says explicitly that the nuclear activities that are going to be carried out with regard to the nuclear material facilities will be supervised by the IAEA -- in all letters."
Grossi added, "Obviously, to do that, we will have to inspect. Whether this happens the day after tomorrow or in one week or in 10 days, it's important, but not essential. This is going to happen."
Iranian Official Denies Access Program
However, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, posted on X that there is no program for access to the attacked facilities and nuclear materials. He stated, "In Switzerland, no meeting was held with Grossi, despite his request. There is also no program for access to the attacked facilities and nuclear materials. These issues will solely be examined and resolved within the framework of the final agreement and as a result of the other party's practical action in terminating all sanctions."
US-Iran Framework Deal Signed
US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the framework deal separately last week, initiating a 60-day window to reach a final peace deal. The MoU explicitly requires IAEA supervision of nuclear activities, including inspections of enrichment sites.
The standoff highlights ongoing tensions between Iran and the international community over its nuclear program. Grossi's comments reaffirm the IAEA's commitment to enforce the terms of the agreement, despite Iranian political statements to the contrary.
