Despite uncertainties surrounding the progress of Washington’s efforts, the head of the IAEA stressed the need for vigilance, advocating a “trust but verify” approach to ensure Iran’s good-faith engagement in negotiations.
The U.S. and Iran are scheduled for a third round of talks on Saturday, focusing on both the technical aspects of Iran’s nuclear program and political considerations, according to reports.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has expressed support for the U.S.-Iran negotiations facilitated by Oman. While the IAEA hasn’t been directly involved in the talks, Grossi has maintained communication with Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
“There’s a widespread expectation for a positive outcome, with the IAEA verifying the agreement,” Grossi stated in Washington, D.C., emphasizing the importance of direct communication between the U.S. and Iran, alongside other ongoing processes.
“We must remain focused on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. That’s the ultimate goal.”
Grossi noted that global leaders anticipate the IAEA playing a crucial role in ensuring the credibility and verifiability of any nuclear agreement reached between Washington and Tehran.
“The IAEA is expected to intervene at the appropriate moment,” he said. “We stand ready to provide support and ensure the agreement’s credibility. While a political agreement is important, our role is to make it verifiable.”
Digital obtained a copy of a speech prepared by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for the Carnegie International Nuclear Policy Conference. Araghchi, who traveled to China to discuss nuclear negotiations, was unable to deliver the speech due to disagreements over format changes.
In his prepared remarks, Araghchi aimed to portray Iran as a supporter of nuclear non-proliferation, arguing that Iran’s position had been “mischaracterized.”
Since the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA, Iran has significantly advanced its nuclear program, accumulating near-weapons-grade enriched uranium and enhancing its centrifuge and missile capabilities.
When questioned by Digital about the honesty of Iran’s position, Grossi responded, “Trust, but verify. We need to verify.”
“We are inspectors – that’s how we build trust,” he added.
Grossi emphasized the need for the administration to define the objectives of the new deal, given that the JCPOA framework is outdated due to Iran’s advancements.
Issues such as uranium stockpiles, inventories, centrifuge advancements, and are all under discussion in the U.S.-Iran negotiations.
“We face a more complex landscape,” Grossi cautioned. “However, we know what to focus on, and we have a unique perspective.”
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