SAEDNEWS: IAEA Director Rafael Grossi said at a UN press conference that cooperation with Iran is ongoing, emphasizing, “We are engaging in a respectful dialogue and intend to continue.”
New York, October 30, 2025 – Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), addressed reporters in New York on Wednesday regarding his agency’s reports on Iran’s nuclear activities and facilities. Responding to a question from IRNA about perceived contradictions in his statements, Grossi emphasized: “We are in communication with the Iranian government, cooperating and engaging respectfully. I intend to continue this collaboration with the aim of contributing to a more stable Middle East.”
Grossi claimed that the IAEA report preceding the 12-day U.S.-Israel military operation in Iran did not substantially differ from previous reports. “While respecting differing opinions, interpreting it otherwise is incorrect. An international organization should not be accused of matters unrelated to it,” he stated.
Addressing further questions about apparent inconsistencies—specifically observations of activity around uranium storage sites without satellite evidence of accelerated high-enriched uranium production—Grossi insisted there was no contradiction, emphasizing that “Iran is not engaging in any enrichment increase.”
IAEA Observations and Inspections
Grossi noted in a recent interview with the Associated Press that the new activities observed at Iranian nuclear sites involved “large industrial facilities; truck and staff movements are normal. We have seen nothing indicating operations involving nuclear material, centrifuges, or large-scale activities.”
He confirmed that IAEA inspections continue in Iran but not at the three sites reportedly bombed by the U.S. in June. “We are working to rebuild oversight capabilities and gradually resume inspections,” he explained. “We do not inspect damaged sites but are negotiating with Iran.”
Grossi added that there is no indication of any fundamental nuclear work at these sites. He clarified, “These are industrial sites with ongoing activity, which does not equate to enrichment operations.” He also noted that 60% enriched nuclear material remains in Iran, highlighting the importance of verifying its security and use.
Iran’s Nuclear Intentions
Grossi acknowledged that Iran has not sought nuclear weapons. He explained that in the absence of direct access, the IAEA must rely on satellite imagery. He also claimed that Iran often reduces cooperation whenever resolutions are passed by the Board of Governors or in Vienna—a practice he has repeatedly criticized.
Despite challenges, Grossi maintains regular communication with Iranian officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, describing the process as ongoing, though not flawless. He stressed that Iran’s decision to remain in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is “wise” and reaffirmed that legislative measures by Iran’s parliament do not impose obligations on the IAEA.
Post-12-Day Conflict and Inspection Challenges
Regarding the impact of the U.S.-Israel operation, Grossi confirmed that Iran’s nuclear infrastructure was damaged at three notable sites. However, he emphasized: “I can confidently say that Iran does not have a military nuclear program, as inspections confirm. Decades of monitoring have shown this. Without inspections, doubts and questions naturally increase.”
He underscored that inspections are not currently conducted at damaged sites like Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, but negotiations with Iran continue. Grossi stressed that adherence to NPT obligations and safeguard agreements is mandatory, not optional or politically conditional.
International Engagement and Mediation
Grossi praised Egypt’s mediating role and noted ongoing communication with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. He highlighted the need for a broader, updated agreement to stabilize the situation in Iran.
Future Ambitions
In response to a question about pursuing the UN Secretary-General position after Antonio Guterres, Grossi confirmed his intention to run.
Legal and Diplomatic Context
Under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and UN Security Council Resolution 2231, all operational clauses ended on October 18, 2025. Following this, Iran, China, and Russia declared all nuclear restrictions terminated, while the European “troika” (UK, Germany, France) activated the snapback mechanism on September 28, 2025, aiming to restore six previously repealed resolutions—creating legal ambiguities and conflicting interpretations before the Security Council.
