Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his government’s readiness to address concerns about its nuclear program during a meeting with Rafael Grossi, the head of the UN’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on Thursday. Pezeshkian reassured Grossi that Iran was open to resolving any ambiguities regarding its peaceful nuclear activities, emphasizing cooperation with the IAEA.
Grossi, who is in Tehran for talks, stressed the importance of achieving concrete results in nuclear discussions to prevent further regional conflict, especially as the US under President-elect Donald Trump is expected to adopt a more aggressive stance toward Iran. Trump, known for his hawkish policies, may offer Israel greater support, increasing tensions.
While in Tehran, Grossi reiterated the need to avoid military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, following recent comments from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, who suggested that Iran’s nuclear sites were now more vulnerable than ever to attacks. In response, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to resolving nuclear doubts through dialogue, not confrontation.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who also met with Grossi, underscored that while Iran is open to negotiations based on national interests and rights, it would not submit to pressure or intimidation. Araghchi, a key figure in the 2015 nuclear deal, also reminded Grossi that Iran had been a consistent party to the agreement, despite the US’s withdrawal in 2018.
Grossi’s visit, his second to Tehran this year, follows heightened tensions since the reimposition of US sanctions under Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign. In response, Iran has gradually scaled back its commitments under the 2015 nuclear agreement, including expanding its uranium enrichment. The IAEA has expressed growing concern over Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium, a level much closer to weapons-grade material.
Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, warned that any new sanctions or intervention by the IAEA would be met with “immediate countermeasures.” Grossi’s trip comes at a pivotal time, with the looming possibility of further escalation under the incoming US administration. His visit includes inspections of Iran’s key uranium enrichment facilities at Fordo and Natanz, aimed at providing a clearer picture of Iran’s nuclear activities.
As tensions rise, Grossi emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions to avoid the risk of conflict, as the window for effective diplomacy narrows. Despite the challenges, Pezeshkian’s government has continued to advocate for the revival of the nuclear deal, which remains in jeopardy amid ongoing international disagreements.
