International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi said the agreement provides a basis for engagement, particularly in relation to monitoring Iran’s nuclear programme. “We believe the fact that the indispensable role of the IAEA is recognised is a sound point of departure,” Grossi said.
Grossi said the focus now shifts to implementation, with consultations expected between the agency and both countries. “Now it’s for us to sit down with our American colleagues, our Iranian colleagues and start formulating the concrete steps,” Grossi said.
The reported memorandum outlines a 60-day negotiation period aimed at securing a comprehensive agreement. Key provisions include limits on uranium enrichment, reaffirmation that Iran will not pursue nuclear weapons, and broader measures such as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The document also reportedly includes an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations across all fronts, including in Lebanon, alongside provisions for easing US and UN sanctions on Iran.
Grossi declined to comment on potential challenges to the agreement, stressing the importance of entering negotiations in good faith. “We have to initiate any negotiation on the assumption that we are all in with faith,” Grossi said.
On the issue of uranium enrichment, Grossi said multiple options remain under consideration. “There are many different alternatives; there are different ranges of enrichment,” Grossi said.
Grossi acknowledged that the IAEA’s current access to Iranian nuclear facilities remains limited, but said engagement with authorities is ongoing. “The agency’s access is not at a level and in all the locations it should be,” Grossi said.
Despite this, Grossi said the agency has a clear understanding of what is required. “We have a pretty good idea of the specific things that we need to access,” Grossi said.
Grossi said the agreement marks the beginning of a more detailed phase of work. “It’s now that the technical work can start for real,” Grossi said.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
