Why it matters:
The meeting comes at a pivotal moment in nuclear diplomacy. Progress in talks between Tehran and the IAEA could ease tensions, reopen diplomatic channels with the U.S., and potentially revive broader nuclear talks.
The big picture:
The 2023 joint statement between Iran and the IAEA was a rare moment of alignment during a tense diplomatic period. Since then, cooperation has improved, but unresolved issues remain.
IAEA chief Rafael Grossi aims to act as a bridge between Tehran and Washington, pushing for a verifiable, peaceful path forward on Iran’s nuclear program.
What he’s saying:
Head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization Mohammad Eslami stressed that Iran expects neutrality from the IAEA and opposes language that can be misused by adversaries. He said both sides agree on this principle and that progress since the 2023 agreement has been satisfactory.
“We will not allow the results of this statement to be downplayed.”
Eslami reaffirmed Iran's commitment to the 2023 joint statement, citing progress and readiness to resolve remaining points.
Rafael Grossi, IAEA Director General, emphasized the agency’s role in building trust between Iran and the U.S.:
“The agency can serve as a bridge… We know some don’t want these talks to succeed, but we must pursue peace.”
He also underlined the importance of verifiable agreements:
“Any nuclear technology deal must be credible and subject to verification… Now is a critical moment, and I believe a positive outcome is within reach.”
Meanwhile, Grossi acknowledged ongoing contact with U.S. negotiators, positioning the IAEA as a facilitator.
IAEA chief Rafael Grossi also praised Iran’s nuclear advancements in healthcare and science but reiterated the IAEA’s responsibility in preventing proliferation.
Key points:
- Deputy-level talks between Iran and the IAEA will take place in the coming days to address unresolved issues.
- The importance of depoliticizing technical cooperation and focusing on peaceful applications of nuclear energy are the main jointly acceptable issues between Iran and the IAEA.
Go deeper:
IAEA’s balancing act between verification and diplomacy is under global scrutiny. As regional instability intensifies and skepticism mounts in Western capitals, the outcome may shape not just Iran’s nuclear future but the credibility of international non-proliferation efforts at large.
IAEA’s Grossi, Iran's AEOI's Eslami Kick Off Talks in Tehran
Hossein Vaez
