IAEA: Technical Negotiations May Commence Following Iran-US Memorandum

We consider the IAEA’s essential role to be a solid foundation,” said Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). “We will now convene with our American and Iranian colleagues to define the concrete steps needed, and I welcome the memorandum, believing that genuine technical work can now begin.

Media reports indicate that the memorandum allows a maximum of 60 days for negotiations aimed at reaching a final agreement, covering Iran’s uranium enrichment and its commitment not to develop a nuclear weapon.

Additional requirements in the memorandum call for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping and the easing of United States and United Nations Security Council sanctions on the nation.

The memorandum also prominently includes the “immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon” as its first of 14 points.

Good faith talks

Speaking at the United Nations in Geneva, Mr. Grossi declined to speculate about potential spoilers, stating that negotiations would commence in good faith with a shared commitment to success.

Responding to a question about a possible agreement to reduce Iran’s enrichment level, the IAEA chief noted that many possibilities could be explored.

There are various alternatives, with different enrichment ranges present in Iran’s current inventory, and the final agreement will determine which are accepted.

He stressed that the agency’s access to all of Iran’s nuclear facilities is not yet at the desired level or in all required locations, though ongoing contact with authorities gives the agency a clear understanding of the specific sites that must be accessed.

Mr. Grossi added that technical work can now truly begin.

Founded in 1957 to promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy, the IAEA operates as an autonomous entity within the United Nations system, reporting to the General Assembly and the Security Council rather than being directly controlled by the UN Secretariat.

Headquartered in Vienna, the IAEA comprises 180 member states and is tasked with objectively monitoring nuclear facilities, reporting on nuclear activities, ensuring safety, fostering peace through diplomacy, and promoting the beneficial use of nuclear technologies.

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