Vienna: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has encountered a roadblock in its efforts to inspect Iran's nuclear facilities, as Iranian authorities have not yet granted the necessary permissions. This was announced by Rafael Mariano Grossi, the IAEA's Director-General, during a briefing in Vienna, Austria.
According to Thai News Agency, the IAEA has formally requested access to the facilities, but Iranian approval remains pending. Despite this, the agency assures that all nuclear material is accounted for, with comprehensive records of storage locations and quantities. Furthermore, satellite imagery and other monitoring tools have revealed extensive damage to several facilities, with access routes to some sites now inaccessible.
The situation is further complicated by Iran's stance, as articulated by Qasem Garibbabadi, the Deputy Foreign Minister for International Law. On June 24, Garibbabadi stated that any inspection would only be considered within the framework of a final agreement with the United States, contingent upon the U.S. lifting all sanctions. He reiterated Iran's position, indicating no current plans to permit IAEA access to the damaged sites.
The IAEA continues to seek cooperation and access, aiming to ensure the peaceful use of nuclear materials and maintain transparency in Iran's nuclear activities. However, the geopolitical conditions and ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States are crucial factors influencing the timeline and outcome of these inspections.