UN Nuclear Watchdog Seeks Breakthrough In Monitoring Iran's Program

International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi walks outside the venue for the COP29 U.N. Climate Summit, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong

The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog expressed optimism about potential progress in monitoring Iran's nuclear program during meetings scheduled this week with Iranian officials, including the country's new president. The International Atomic Energy Agency's director general is set to meet with President Masoud Pezeshkian in Iran, aiming to address the longstanding issue of monitoring the country's nuclear activities.

The IAEA chief highlighted the urgency of the situation, particularly in light of recent Israeli strikes on Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap in confidence to prevent nuclear facilities from becoming targets.

Iran has been advancing its atomic program and accumulating uranium enriched to levels close to those required for weapons, defying international demands. While Iran asserts that its nuclear activities are for energy purposes rather than weapon development, concerns persist.

The 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers, which imposed restrictions on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for lifting economic sanctions, collapsed after the U.S. withdrew from the deal in 2018. Subsequently, Iran disregarded the imposed limits and increased uranium enrichment levels.

Urgency stressed due to recent Israeli strikes and escalating tensions.

IAEA chief to meet with Iranian president to address nuclear monitoring.

Iran advancing atomic program despite international demands.

The IAEA director general clarified that the agency's role is to verify the accuracy of Iran's statements regarding its nuclear program, rather than speculate on intentions. He also acknowledged the potential radiological consequences of attacks on nuclear facilities, underscoring the prohibition of such actions under international law.

With the recent U.S. election results, questions arise regarding the future engagement between the incoming administration and Iran. The IAEA chief expressed readiness to collaborate with the new administration, emphasizing the growing complexity of the issue and the imperative of finding a resolution.

Overall, the upcoming discussions between the IAEA and Iranian officials hold promise for addressing the challenges surrounding Iran's nuclear program and fostering international cooperation in nuclear monitoring.