Grossi Aims for Key Talks with Iranian Officials to Address Nuclear Concerns

In a recent press conference held at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Gross expressed his strong concerns regarding the unresolved safeguards issues related to Iran’s nuclear program. This crucial meeting marks the opening of the IAEA Board of Governors quarterly session.

During the press briefing, Gross highlighted significant developments in Iran’s nuclear activities, stating, “Following my last report, Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% U‑235 has increased to 275 kg, up from 182 kg in the past quarter.” This alarming increase raises questions about the country’s compliance with international agreements.

Gross further emphasized the ongoing challenges, noting, “It has been four years since Iran stopped implementing its nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), including provisionally applying its Additional Protocol and therefore it is also four years since the Agency was able to conduct complementary access in Iran.” This lapse in adherence has significant implications for global nuclear non-proliferation efforts.

Addressing the discrepancies in Iran’s nuclear declarations, Gross stated, “You also have before you my report on the NPT Safeguards Agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran says it has declared all nuclear material, activities and locations required under its NPT Safeguards Agreement. However, this statement is inconsistent with the Agency’s findings of uranium particles of anthropogenic origin at undeclared locations in Iran.” These discrepancies underscore the need for greater transparency and cooperation from Iran.

Furthermore, Gross pointed out a critical issue regarding uranium production, saying, “There is also a discrepancy in the material balance of uranium involved in uranium metal production experiments conducted at Jaber Ibn Hayan Multipurpose Laboratory, for which Iran has not accounted.” This lack of accountability raises concerns about Iran’s nuclear intentions and compliance with international norms.

Highlighting Iran’s obligations, Gross remarked, “Having stated it had suspended such implementation, Iran still is not implementing modified Code 3.1, which is a legal obligation for Iran.” This non-compliance could have serious ramifications for diplomatic relations and regional stability.

In a bid to foster dialogue and mitigate tensions, Gross noted the importance of high-level engagement. He mentioned his visit to Tehran last November, where he met with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. He expressed optimism about the potential for constructive compromises, stating, “I hope to see them again soon and pursue effective dialogue and tangible results.”

In conclusion, Gross reiterated the need for focused attention on Iran’s nuclear program, mentioning, “Regarding the issue of Iran’s nuclear program, you have before you my latest report on verification and monitoring in the Islamic Republic of Iran in light of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015).” The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely, urging Iran to comply with its international obligations and to restore trust in its nuclear activities.

• IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Gross expresses concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.
• Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile has increased significantly, raising alarms.
• Four years of non-compliance with the JCPOA has led to increased scrutiny.
• Discrepancies in Iran’s nuclear declarations highlight the need for transparency.
• High-level engagement is crucial for constructive dialogue and progress.

This ongoing situation underscores the complexities of international nuclear agreements and the importance of cooperation and transparency among nations. The IAEA remains committed to its mission of promoting safe and secure nuclear practices worldwide.