Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has announced plans to visit Tehran in the coming weeks, with discussions underway to finalize the exact date.

Why it matters:

The visit comes as part of continued diplomatic engagement between Iran and the IAEA, aimed at addressing nuclear safeguards issues and fostering technical cooperation within the framework of Iran’s commitments under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The trip also underscores Tehran’s ongoing cooperation with the IAEA, despite external pressures and politically motivated allegations from Western powers.

 

What he's saying:

In response to a question from a TASS reporter, Grossi confirmed that discussions are underway to schedule his visit in the coming weeks. When asked whether the trip would take place in April, he stated, "It is possible."

 

What they're saying:

Iranian officials have repeatedly criticized the political exploitation of the IAEA's technical role by certain Western countries, emphasizing that cooperation with the IAEA must be based on mutual respect and technical considerations rather than political pressure.

 

Key points:

  • Rafael Grossi has made multiple visits to Iran since assuming office in December 2019, with past visits focused on cooperation frameworks and inspection access.
  • His last trip in November 2024 included meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and visits to the Fordow and Natanz nuclear facilities.
  • Tehran has repeatedly called for impartiality from the IAEA and has warned against external interference in its technical discussions with the agency.

 

Go deeper:

Grossi's visit comes at a time when Iran continues to assert its right to peaceful nuclear development under international law.  As negotiations on the nuclear issue continue, Tehran remains firm on rejecting politically motivated demands while upholding its technical engagement with the agency.

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ahmad shirzadian