UN watchdog says inspectors will visit Iran nuclear sites
Key takeaways
- Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), pointed to language in the MOU that calls for the IAEA to oversee downblending of Iran s stockpile of enriched uranium.
- Obviously, to do that, we will have to inspect, he said.
- Grossi s remarks demonstrate a commitment by the IAEA to resume its operations in Iran, although the U.S. and Iran are offering contradictory remarks on timing and the watchdogs participation.
Why this matters: political developments that affect policy direction and public trust.
Rafael Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), pointed to language in the MOU that calls for the IAEA to oversee downblending of Iran s stockpile of enriched uranium. Nearly 1,000 pounds of highly enriched uranium is believed buried under Iran s destroyed Isfahan nuclear complex, which was hit in the June 2025 U.S. attacks on the site.
The MOU says explicitly that the nuclear activities that are going to be carried out with regards to the nuclear material facilities will be supervised by the IAEA — in all letters, Grossi told journalists at a news conference at the tsunami-hit Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.
Obviously, to do that, we will have to inspect, he said. Whether this happens the day after tomorrow or in one week or in 10 days, it s important, but not essential. This is going to happen.