IAEA Chief Calls for Urgent Progress in Iran Nuclear Talks Amid Rising Tensions
Rafael Grossi, the head of the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has emphasized the urgent need for Iran and its international partners to achieve meaningful results in the ongoing negotiations regarding Tehran's nuclear program. His comments come in light of the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House, which he argues may limit the opportunity for diplomatic engagement in the future.
Speaking to journalists in Tehran on November 14, following a meeting with Iran's nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, Grossi expressed that the current geopolitical climate demands swift action towards a resolution. He pointed out that with Iran’s regional proxies engaged in conflicts against Israel, and Trump, known for his hardline stance on Iran, looming as a potential leader again in January, the pressure to reach a solution intensifies.
"We know that it is indispensable, at this point in time, to get some concrete, tangible, and visible results that will indicate that this joint work is improving the situation, is bringing clarification to things, and in a general sense, is moving us away from conflict and ultimately war,” Grossi stated.
The backdrop of Grossi's visit is significant, occurring just two months before Trump’s inauguration. During his previous term in 2018, Trump unilaterally exited the landmark 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and reinstated severe sanctions against Iran. The JCPOA had initially granted Iran limited relief from international sanctions in exchange for strict measures to curb its nuclear ambitions, aiming to prevent the development of nuclear weapons.
Grossi also engaged in discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. Araqchi, who played a pivotal role in the negotiations of the JCPOA, characterized the talks with Grossi as crucial and straightforward. He affirmed Iran's commitment to cooperating with the IAEA regarding nuclear nonproliferation while maintaining that Tehran would not engage in negotiations under duress.
Since the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA, Iran has expanded its nuclear activities and restricted the IAEA's inspections of its nuclear sites. Recent reports have alarmed the international community, indicating that Iran has significantly increased its uranium stockpile enriched to 60 percent—much closer to the 90 percent required for weaponization.
Eric Brewer, a nuclear expert, underscored that the IAEA's limited access to Iran's nuclear facilities heightens concerns regarding Iran's capability to produce more enriched uranium. "I suspect that to get Iran to provide some information on that front is at the top of Director-General Grossi's list," Brewer remarked.
Although Grossi's visit was planned prior to the U.S. election, the specter of Trump’s potential reelection casts a shadow over the ongoing discussions. Later that same day, Grossi is also expected to meet with Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian to further the dialogue on these pressing matters.
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