IAEA chief reports progress in Iran nuclear talks

(Web Desk): The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog agency (IAEA) has claimed progress in talks with Iran and expressed hope for a successful outcome soon regarding inspections at Iranian nuclear sites.

Speaking at the IAEA Board of Governors meeting in Vienna, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said that negotiations could reach a successful conclusion within a few days.

He noted that time is rapidly running out to fully restore inspections of Iran’s nuclear facilities, but expressed optimism that the talks could lead to a breakthrough soon.

“There is still some time left—but not much—provided there is goodwill and a sense of responsibility,” the agency added.

The IAEA has not had access to Iran’s key nuclear facilities since June, after Iran passed a law halting cooperation with the agency. This came in response to alleged attacks on those facilities by the U.S. and Israel. Under the new law, inspections are now subject to approval by Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

According to Grossi, discussions on the “modalities” of restoring full inspections are ongoing, but this does not change Iran’s legal obligations as a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has described the Vienna talks as “positive,” but acknowledged that no final outcome or next-phase schedule has yet been determined.

Spokesman Ismail Baghaei told reporters at a weekly press conference, “The third round concluded on Saturday, and its outcomes are under review. Further steps will be announced afterward.”

Meanwhile, the three major European powers—France, the United Kingdom, and Germany (known as the E3)—have already triggered a 30-day process as of August 28 to reimpose sanctions on Iran. These sanctions had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear agreement but were suspended after the U.S. withdrew from the deal in 2018.

The E3 countries have made it clear that if Iran does not allow full inspections, explain its uranium stockpiles, and agree to resume talks with the United States, sanctions will be reimposed through the “snapback” mechanism.

Grossi added, “I am confident that if practical steps are agreed upon regarding inspections, the diplomatic process will benefit from a better atmosphere—one that can lead to positive outcomes.”