Iran Rejects IAEA Inspection Push, Says Access to NUclear Facilities Only After Final US-Iran Agreement

Tehran: Iran on Wednesday ruled out immediate inspections of its nuclear facilities by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), insisting that any access would depend on the conclusion of a final agreement with the United States.

The response came after IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi indicated that the UN nuclear watchdog expected to resume inspections at Iranian enrichment sites under the framework of the recent US-Iran understanding.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi rejected that position in a statement posted on X, saying no meeting had taken place with Grossi in Switzerland despite the agency chief’s request. He also said Tehran had not approved any visit to facilities affected by military strikes or to nuclear materials.

According to Gharibabadi, decisions regarding inspections would only be considered as part of a final agreement and after the United States takes practical steps to remove sanctions and other restrictions. He accused some parties of attempting to influence the process through public messaging and media pressure.

Speaking in Japan at a press conference held at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, Grossi maintained that the memorandum signed by both presidents clearly places future nuclear-related activities and facilities under IAEA supervision.

Grossi said inspections were essential to implement the agreement, particularly because it includes provisions to reduce Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While he acknowledged uncertainty over timing, he said inspections would eventually take place.

The exchange highlights continuing differences between Washington and Tehran over implementation of the framework deal.

Since the 2025 Israel-Iran conflict, Tehran has restricted IAEA access to enrichment sites believed to contain significant quantities of highly enriched uranium.

Iran continues to maintain that its nuclear programme is intended solely for peaceful purposes.