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IAEA chief: US-Iran deal opens path for technical work on nuclear program
🇵🇾 Paraguay /Energy & Infrastructure

IAEA chief: US-Iran deal opens path for technical work on nuclear program

From ABC Color · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Ongoing story
  • The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, stated that a US-Iran memorandum of understanding paves the way for technical work on Iran's nuclear program.
  • Grossi described the current phase as one of 'circumspection,' focusing on translating general principles into concrete steps.
  • The agreement extends a ceasefire for 60 days, during which both sides will work towards a final resolution of their differences regarding Iran's nuclear activities.

The director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, indicated that a recently signed memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States creates an opportunity for the necessary technical work to implement their agreement concerning Iran's nuclear program. Grossi described the current moment as one requiring 'circumspection,' emphasizing the need to move from general principles to specific actions.

Now the technical work is to move from general principles to concrete steps to follow.

— Rafael GrossiDescribing the immediate next steps following the US-Iran agreement.

Speaking in Geneva, Grossi, who leads the UN agency responsible for inspecting nuclear facilities, explained that the initial discussions between IAEA experts and the involved parties will define the specific requirements and access needed. He noted that the 14-point memorandum of understanding extends a ceasefire for 60 days, providing a window for both nations to reach a final settlement on their disputes. At the core of these disputes is Iran's nuclear program, which Tehran maintains is for civilian purposes, while the US, Israel, and Western nations suspect it may have military applications.

what we need to see, what places we must have access to.

— Rafael GrossiExplaining the focus of initial expert discussions.

Grossi, an Argentine diplomat and a candidate for UN Secretary-General, highlighted the agreement's recognition of the IAEA's 'indispensable role.' He clarified that the agency has maintained contact with Iran, although the level of technical work permitted has been below optimal. IAEA experts are conducting certain inspections, but not necessarily in all locations or to the extent they deem necessary. Grossi mentioned the possibility of attending a meeting between Iranian and US delegations in Switzerland, though this remains unconfirmed.

the indispensable role of the IAEA

— Rafael GrossiAcknowledging the agency's importance in the agreement.

He added that the technical phase for implementing the agreement is predicated on the assumption that 'everyone is acting in good faith and wants this to succeed.' The agreement aims to address the long-standing concerns over Iran's nuclear activities while respecting its right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

everyone is acting in good faith and wants this to succeed.

— Rafael GrossiStating the underlying assumption for the successful implementation of the agreement.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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