The director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, clarified on Wednesday at the United Nations headquarters in New York that Iran is not developing nuclear weapons, correcting what he called frequent misquotations of the agency’s stance. Grossi firmly stated that Iran “is not, and they were not,” pursuing nuclear weapons development.
He acknowledged that cooperation between Iran and the IAEA has fluctuated recently due to political developments but emphasized Tehran’s commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Grossi urged Iran to increase cooperation, stressing that reduced engagement is not the correct response, but welcomed the country’s clear affirmation that it would remain a member of the NPT.
The IAEA suspended inspections in Iran temporarily due to safety concerns during the 12-Day War between Iran and Israel in June, when Israeli and U.S. strikes targeted key Iranian nuclear sites. These strikes caused significant damage to three facilities, setting back Iran’s nuclear program, Grossi said.
Despite outstanding questions and the complex geopolitical situation, Grossi’s clear message reiterates that the IAEA currently has no proof that Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons, while continuing to monitor and verify Iran’s nuclear activities closely.
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