IAEA Chief Visits Two Nuclear Sites During Iran Trip

Rafael Grossi's Trip Comes Amid Stalled Nuclear Talks

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), visited two nuclear sites during his trip to Iran from 29-31 May 2023. The main purpose of his visit is to help discussions between Iran and the United States over reviving the 2015 nuclear deal.

IAEA Chief's Visit to Iran

Grossi met with Iranian officials, including President Ebrahim Raisi, and visited the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant and the Tehran Research Reactor.

The Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, dug deep into a mountain, is part of Iran's enrichment program, a major concern for the international community. The Tehran Research Reactor produces radioisotopes for medical and industrial applications.

Grossi's Statement on Iran's Nuclear Program

Grossi said that Iran's nuclear program is "advancing very, very fast" and is "a matter of serious concern." He urged Iran to cooperate fully with the IAEA and to provide access to all sites and information that the agency needs to verify Iran's nuclear activities.

Stalled Nuclear Talks

Grossi's visit comes as nuclear talks between Iran and the US remain stalled. The talks, which began in Vienna in April 2021, aim to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 2015 nuclear deal that Iran and six world powers signed.

The US withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, and Iran has gradually scaled back its commitments to the deal in response.

IAEA's Role in Iran Nuclear Deal

The IAEA is responsible for verifying Iran's compliance with the JCPOA. If the deal is revived, the IAEA will play a crucial role in monitoring Iran's nuclear activities and ensuring that Iran complies with its commitments.

Conclusion

Grossi's visit to Iran is a significant step in the ongoing efforts to revive the JCPOA. The IAEA's role in verifying Iran's compliance with the deal will be crucial to ensuring that the deal is effectively implemented and that Iran's nuclear program remains peaceful.