IAEA could aid in potential US-Iran deal if asked: Grossi
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The Chief of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog emphasized that the IAEA could aid in the Iran-US talks should both sides request it to do so.
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International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General, Rafael Grossi, addresses the media during a news conference during an IAEA meeting in Vienna, Austria, Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2023 (AP)
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi said that the agency could play a role in an agreement between the US and Iran if both sides requested the involvement of the IAEA.
"The IAEA could play a role in that, but this, of course, is something that needs to be requested by both sides," Grossi stated at the Carnegie International Nuclear Policy Conference on Tuesday, pointing out that it could be difficult to find a third party for the talks between Tehran and Washington.
"The IAEA is there, we have the confidence of all the actors," Grossi added.
Grossi also highlighted the importance of the success of these talks, pointing out that if Washington and Tehran successfully reach an agreement in their ongoing talks regarding Iran's nuclear program, there is a possibility that the global community could avert the outbreak of war.
"My impression is that if we are successful, if they [Iran and the US] are successful in their negotiations, I think things will move together, and we will have a better possibility to avoid war," Grossi stated.
IAEA chief denounces threats against Iran's nuclear facilities
The chief of the UN nuclear watchdog emphasized on April 17 that threats of strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities are "unacceptable," stressing the gravity of such actions and calling for diplomatic solutions.
"The IAEA has always emphasized that threats against Iran's nuclear facilities are unacceptable and that the attacks that are being discussed could not only worsen existing problems, but also create more serious environmental consequences," Grossi said, according to the IRIB news agency.
On April 16, The New York Times reported that US President Donald Trump blocked an Israeli plan to strike Iranian nuclear facilities, as Washington pursues renewed diplomatic efforts to limit Tehran's nuclear program.
IAEA should be involved in Iran-US nuclear talks, chief says in Tehran
On April 17, Grossi said the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) seeks to play a role in the negotiations between Iran and the US.
Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Grossi said he had discussed with Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, how the IAEA could support the ongoing talks between Tehran and Washington.
He acknowledged that the negotiation process is complex and pointed out that some parties are opposed to the talks producing results.
Nevertheless, Grossi stressed the importance of continued efforts to achieve peace.
The IAEA chief emphasized that any potential agreement between Iran and the US must be credible, something that would require IAEA verification.
He reiterated the agency’s intention to be involved in the dialogue, saying it is essential to understand Iran’s expectations.
Grossi added that he is also "in contact with the American negotiator to see how the agency can be a bridge between Iran and the US, and help achieve a positive outcome in the negotiations."
