Time Running Out, Grossi Warns Over Iran Nuclear Inspections

Grossi emphasized that time is running out and Iran must take responsible action regarding the full resumption of inspections.

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, announced on Monday, September 8, that the window of opportunity to reach an agreement with Iran over how to fully restore nuclear inspections is closing. He stressed that negotiations will only succeed if the Iranian side demonstrates good faith and a sense of responsibility.

Since the U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities during the 12-day conflict, IAEA inspectors have been unable to access these sites. Subsequently, Iran’s Parliament passed legislation suspending cooperation with the Agency and making any inspections conditional on the decision of the Supreme National Security Council. This action effectively blocked the path to transparency and placed Iran further at odds with its international obligations.

Ongoing negotiations between the Agency and Tehran concern how to resume inspections, but Grossi reminded that these talks do not in any way change Iran’s responsibilities as a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Three European countries—France, Britain, and Germany—have simultaneously launched a 30-day process to restore suspended sanctions. These countries have warned that if Iran does not provide clear explanations about uranium stockpiles approaching weapons-grade levels and does not resume full cooperation with the Agency, the “snapback mechanism” to restore UN sanctions will be activated.

Grossi told the Board of Governors: “There is still time, but not much. There is always enough time when there is good faith and a clear sense of responsibility.” He expressed hope that in the coming days, ongoing negotiations will reach a conclusion, paving the way for the Agency’s comprehensive and vital operations in Iran.

These developments once again demonstrate that the Islamic Republic’s policies, instead of defending national interests, have mired Iran in international isolation and pressure. The ruling establishment’s lack of commitment has not only narrowed the path to any diplomacy but has made the Iranian people the primary victims of this crisis—people bearing the costs of sanctions, economic pressure, and political instability.