IAEA chief clarifies no evidence of Iran possessing nuclear weapons

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has confirmed that there is no concrete evidence that Iran has crossed into the weaponisation phase of its nuclear programme amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

In a telephone interview with LA NACION, Grossi emphasised that the agency’s latest inspections and findings indicate Iran has not progressed to assembling or manufacturing an actual nuclear explosive device, Caliber.Az reports.

Grossi explained that while Iran has not fully cooperated with the agency by withholding some explanations on aspects of its programme, it is the only country enriching uranium to levels as high as 60%, approaching weapons-grade material (90% uranium-235). This raises significant concerns, but does not prove bomb production.

“Our role is technical inspection,” Grossi said. “We can confirm where uranium enrichment is happening, but we cannot judge intentions or assert the existence of a nuclear weapon without tangible proof.” He stressed that the decision to interpret Iran’s intentions lies with governments such as Israel, the US, Russia, or China, not the IAEA.

Regarding timelines, Grossi urged caution against setting specific countdowns. He dismissed claims from some quarters that Iran was “two weeks away” from a bomb, while intelligence reports estimate a longer timeframe. He characterised Iran’s potential bomb-making capacity as “not imminent, but not far off.”

The IAEA chief also highlighted contradictory signals within Iran itself, noting a religious decree (fatwa) by Iran’s Supreme Leader forbidding nuclear weapons on Islamic grounds, alongside statements from officials suggesting rapid bomb-making capability if ordered.

Grossi cautioned that Iran’s nuclear programme remains ambiguous and concerning, demanding transparency and continued inspections. He warned that the ongoing conflict and potential attacks on Iran’s underground Fordow facility, a key enrichment site, could have significant military and strategic consequences, though a major radiological disaster is unlikely due to limited materials stored there.

Calling for a negotiated resolution, Grossi stressed the agency’s independence amidst attempts by various actors to use IAEA reports to justify military action or political positions. He urged the resumption of inspections as a vital first step toward de-escalation.

By Aghakazim Guliyev