Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi confirmed on Friday that the United Nations nuclear watchdog has begun discussions with Iran regarding the future of its stockpile of enriched uranium, while stressing the urgent need for a “very robust” verification system to ensure Tehran does not develop nuclear weapons following the recent conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking to reporters during a visit to Japan, Grossi said the primary objective of the latest understanding reached between the United States and Iran is to prevent the development of nuclear weapons by Tehran.
“I believe the goal of this agreement is to ensure that nuclear weapons are not developed in Iran,” Grossi said, noting that Iranian authorities have repeatedly stated that such intentions do not exist, according to news agencies.
However, the IAEA chief emphasized that political assurances alone are insufficient without strict international monitoring mechanisms.
“Good intentions alone are not enough,” he stated. “We must have a very strong verification system in place as soon as possible.”
Grossi revealed that preliminary talks between the agency and Iran have already begun following the recent agreement reached between Washington and Tehran concerning the future handling of Iran’s enriched uranium reserves. “Preliminary discussions have taken place, and we expect this work to accelerate soon,” he said.
The renewed diplomatic engagement comes amid heightened international scrutiny over Iran’s nuclear activities and broader regional security concerns following recent tensions and military confrontations in the Middle East.
The IAEA has repeatedly stressed the importance of transparency, inspections, and international oversight as key elements in maintaining confidence in the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.
