UN Nuclear Chief Demands Strict Iran Checks in Potential War-Ending Deal
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi has urged that any agreement to end the ongoing Middle East conflict must include rigorous verification measures for Iran's nuclear programme. Speaking in Seoul, Grossi warned that without IAEA inspector access, any deal would be merely an 'illusion.' This statement follows a confidential report revealing that Tehran has denied the IAEA access to nuclear facilities bombed by Israel and the US during a 12-day conflict last June. Consequently, the agency cannot verify if enrichment activities have suspended or determine the size of uranium stockpiles at affected sites. Currently, Iran holds 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to 60%, a level close to weapons-grade. While US President Donald Trump indicated that new peace talks are imminent after initial negotiations in Pakistan failed, tensions remain high. The US aims to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a charge Tehran denies, insisting its program is peaceful. Meanwhile, the IAEA also noted increased nuclear activity in North Korea. The situation underscores the critical role of international safeguards in potential diplomatic resolutions to the regional war.
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UN Nuclear Chief Demands Strict Iran Checks in Potential War-Ending Deal
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi has urged that any agreement to end the ongoing Middle East conflict must include rigorous verification measures for Iran's nuclear programme. Speaking in Seoul, Grossi warned that without IAEA inspector access, any deal would be merely an 'illusion.' This statement follows a confidential report revealing that Tehran has denied the IAEA access to nuclear facilities bombed by Israel and the US during a 12-day conflict last June. Consequently, the agency cannot verify if enrichment activities have suspended or determine the size of uranium stockpiles at affected sites. Currently, Iran holds 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to 60%, a level close to weapons-grade. While US President Donald Trump indicated that new peace talks are imminent after initial negotiations in Pakistan failed, tensions remain high. The US aims to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a charge Tehran denies, insisting its program is peaceful. Meanwhile, the IAEA also noted increased nuclear activity in North Korea. The situation underscores the critical role of international safeguards in potential diplomatic resolutions to the regional war.
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