Iran not developing nuclear weapons, confirms UN nuclear chief
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New York: The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, Rafael Grossi, has reaffirmed that Iran is not developing nuclear weapons, countering what he described as persistent misrepresentation of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) stance.
Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday, Grossi said the Iranians “are not, and they were not” attempting to build nuclear arms.
“I want to be very clear on this,” he emphasised. “We are often misquoted about this, and people say we have said things we never said.”
Grossi, who has led the IAEA since 2019, said cooperation between Iran and the agency has fluctuated in recent months due to political developments. However, he noted that Tehran has reaffirmed its commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
“I have told our Iranian counterparts repeatedly that reducing cooperation is not the right response,” he said. “But I think it is a wise step that they have made clear they will not leave the NPT.”
Grossi revealed that IAEA inspections in Iran were temporarily suspended for safety reasons during the “12-Day War” between Iran and Israel in June, but efforts to resume engagement are ongoing. He cited a September agreement brokered in Cairo under Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, which allows inspections to continue.
“The arrangement is not perfect, but it is working,” Grossi said, adding that he remains in regular contact with Iran’s foreign minister and other senior officials.
When asked about Israeli and US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites during the June conflict, Grossi confirmed that three facilities sustained considerable damage, setting back Iran’s nuclear program.
“There is no doubt about this,” he said, cautioning that such incidents complicate the IAEA’s inspection work.
Grossi also dismissed claims in Iranian media that IAEA reports had contributed to regional tensions, saying such accusations were unfounded.
“It is not correct to attack an international organisation and blame it for something that has nothing to do with it,” he stated. “Our reports reflect technical facts, not political judgments.”
During the briefing, Grossi confirmed that he intends to run for UN Secretary-General once Antonio Guterres’ term concludes at the end of 2026. He said his motivation stems from a desire to strengthen the organisation at a critical moment.
“I think we all agree that the United Nations needs change,” he told Arab News. “What made me decide to run is exactly what I am doing at the IAEA — leading an organization through difficult times, dealing with crises, and still delivering results.”
He added that he would discuss his candidacy further at the appropriate time, in accordance with procedures set out by the UN General Assembly and Security Council.
