Grossi says Iran nuclear deal now 'empty shell,' advocates new format
2 Min Read
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasizes the need to overhaul the JCPOA nuclear deal, calling for a new framework to address Iran’s evolving nuclear capabilities.
-
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi speaks to the media after his talks with the head of Russia's Rosatom state corporation Alexey Likhachev in Moscow, Russia, on February 7, 2025. (AP)
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran's nuclear program is outdated and that a new framework for negotiations is needed.
Speaking at a press conference in Tokyo, Grossi described the JCPOA as "an empty shell," arguing that it is no longer relevant due to technological advancements.
He emphasized that the agreement, once operational, has now been rendered obsolete, particularly in light of Iran's evolving nuclear capabilities, including the use of more advanced centrifuges.
Despite this, Grossi noted that during discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, both sides acknowledged that the core principle of the JCPOA—limiting Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for incentives—could still serve as a basis for future agreements.
The JCPOA was originally signed in 2015 by Iran and the five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany to address concerns over Tehran’s nuclear program.
However, in 2018, President Donald Trump withdrew the US from the deal and reinstated sanctions. In response, and following the EU's repeated failure to abide by the agreement, Iran passed a 2020 law scaling back its commitments, including restricting IAEA inspections beyond the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Trump calls for new Iran nuclear deal
Earlier this month, Trump called for renewed negotiations on a "verified nuclear peace agreement" with Iran, urging immediate talks while reinstating his maximum pressure policy. Tehran, however, responded cautiously, stating that its diplomatic approach remains rooted in dignity, wisdom, and expediency.
On February 2, Trump signed an order reinstating the maximum pressure strategy against Iran, a policy first introduced during his first term after he withdrew the US from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear agreement. The move coincided with his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where both leaders reiterated that Iran must never develop nuclear weapons.
Speaking on his Truth Social platform, Trump reaffirmed his stance: "I want Iran to be a great and successful Country, but one that cannot have a Nuclear Weapon. I would much prefer a Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement, which will let Iran peacefully grow and prosper."
