Rafael Grossi, who leads the International Atomic Energy Agency, emphasizes the ongoing importance of maintaining open channels with Iran. He notes that credible verification work is taking place on Iranian soil as part of the IAEA’s mission to monitor nuclear developments, and he stresses that sustained dialogue is essential to ensure transparency and build trust between the agency and Iranian authorities. The head of the IAEA outlines that the work conducted within Iran aims to provide a clear, factual picture of the country’s nuclear activities, addressing any questions that may arise and helping to prevent misunderstandings from escalating into larger concerns.
Grossi highlights that continued engagement is necessary because it underpins stability and confidence in the international nonproliferation framework. He has consistently communicated to Iranian counterparts the strategic value of regular talks and practical cooperation, expressing optimism that the conversations are conducted at a high level and carried out with seriousness. This commitment to dialogue reflects the IAEA’s belief that transparent reporting and routine inspections are critical to verifying compliance and safeguarding regional security.
The IAEA chief notes several developments in Iran that give observers reason to pay close attention. He reiterates the agency’s role on Iranian soil as a means to dispel doubts and to ensure that the verification process remains rigorous and objective. The aim is to minimize ambiguity, reinforce international norms, and support a sound, fact-based assessment of nuclear-related activities in the country. By staying present and engaged, the IAEA seeks to prevent any drift in governance that could undermine safeguards and collective security assurances.
Previously, media reports indicated that Grossi might travel to Tehran, with the visit framed against tensions over Tehran’s reporting cadence and the IAEA’s inspection regime. The agency’s leadership stresses that such travel would be motivated by the desire to strengthen collaboration, clarify outstanding issues, and advance a constructive dialogue about the path forward for verification, transparency, and responsible stewardship of nuclear technology in the region.