IAEA chief says access to Iranian nuclear sites hinges on US talks

International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi said the ability to regain access to Iranian nuclear facilities depends largely on the outcome of ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran.

Speaking in an interview with Russia's RIA Novosti news agency, Grossi said the agency has so far been unable to obtain access to the sites.

"So far, we have not been able to obtain it [access to Iranian facilities]. But here, I think it's important to understand that this issue is, to a certain extent, linked to—I would even say dependent on—the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran regarding the memorandum of understanding," Grossi said.

He stressed that all matters involving nuclear material would ultimately fall under the IAEA's inspection and monitoring responsibilities.

Grossi also expressed hope that the negotiations, which began several weeks ago in Switzerland, would progress more quickly.

"I hope this won't take too long. Formally speaking, we should already have access," he said.

The IAEA has sought to restore access to Iranian nuclear facilities as part of its mandate to verify the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme. The agency's inspections have become a key issue in broader diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran to address longstanding disputes over Iran's nuclear activities.

By Sabina Mammadli