Tehran expects the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to provide an objective and impartial reflection of the true state of Iran’s nuclear program.
This was stated by Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi during a phone conversation with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, according to Trend.
Araghchi emphasized Iran’s continued close cooperation with the agency, conducting its nuclear activities within the framework of the safeguards agreement and under constant IAEA monitoring. He noted that any distortion of facts could provide grounds for certain parties to use the agency for political purposes against Iran.
He expressed hope that the IAEA Director General would inform the upcoming meeting of the agency’s Board of Governors next week about Iran’s cooperation. Araghchi warned that any politicized actions could lead to negative consequences, and Iran reserves the right to respond accordingly. He stated that responsibility for any possible escalation would lie with those attempting to use the agency to Iran’s detriment.
The interlocutors also discussed indirect talks between Iran and the US, the prospects for sanctions relief, and the latest IAEA report on Iran.
It should be noted that the agency’s May 17, 2024 report indicated that Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% reached 408.6 kg, an increase of 133.8 kg compared to the previous report in February. The document emphasizes that enriching uranium to this level represents a short technical step towards weapons-grade enrichment at 90%. The IAEA called on Iran for full and effective cooperation.