Rafael Grossi Warns About Iran’s Uranium Reserves and Need to Resume Inspections

“Rafael Grossi” warned about the status of Iran’s uranium reserves and called on Tehran to agree to resume inspections as soon as possible.

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, once again urged Iran to resume nuclear monitoring processes without delay. He emphasized on Wednesday, September 3, in an interview with “Reuters”: “Negotiations for this agreement cannot continue for months.” He also warned that prolonging this process could lead to a new crisis.

According to new regulations in Iran, continued cooperation with the Agency will only be possible with the approval of the Supreme National Security Council, and any future inspections will require the green light from this council. Grossi, referring to this matter, said that this process must be concluded as quickly as possible and expressed hope that an agreement would be reached before next week’s meeting of the Board of Governors.

Meanwhile, a confidential report from the Agency, which has been provided to member states, shows that Iran possessed more than 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent at the time Israeli attacks began in June. Experts believe that if enrichment continues, this amount could be sufficient to produce approximately 10 nuclear bombs.

Grossi explained the situation, stating: “The general perception is that nuclear materials still exist, but this must be confirmed independently.” He emphasized that although no signs of large-scale transfer of these materials have been observed, Tehran is obligated to clarify the status of its reserves.

The Agency Director General also noted that recent aerial attacks by the United States and Israel have not eliminated Iran’s ability to manufacture new enrichment equipment. He reiterated: “We have always tried to leave room for diplomacy, but this process must take place within a reasonable timeframe.”

The International Atomic Energy Agency will hold a meeting in Vienna next week. Grossi has already submitted two reports to members regarding the status of Iran’s nuclear program, emphasizing “the urgent need to reach an agreement on inspections” as well as “serious concerns regarding Iran’s enriched uranium reserves.”