The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, stated during a visit to Japan that inspections at Iran's nuclear sites are 'going to happen,' despite Tehran's insistence that access depends on a final agreement with the United States. Grossi noted that the memorandum of understanding signed with the US 'explicitly' states that nuclear activities will be supervised by the IAEA.

Grossi added that the dates and locations of inspections are being discussed and a decision will be made soon 'in collaboration and cooperation with the government of Iran.' 'Whether this happens today, after tomorrow, or in one week, or in 10 days, it's important but not essential. This is going to happen,' he said.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi countered on X that UN inspectors' access to attacked nuclear sites would 'solely be examined and resolved within the framework of a final agreement' with the US. He stressed that inspections are contingent on 'the other party's practical action in terminating all sanctions.'

Gharibabadi also revealed that no Iranian officials met with Grossi during the Switzerland negotiations, despite his request. The MoU signed last week paved the way for 60 days of talks between the US and Iran aimed at resolving key issues, including Tehran's nuclear program and enriched uranium stockpile.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said there is no 'clear schedule' for IAEA inspections of nuclear facilities attacked by the US and Israel. US President Donald Trump responded that IAEA inspectors will head to Iran, but there is 'no rush.' Separately, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that no negotiations have taken place regarding Tehran's ballistic missile program, nor will they.

Following the 12-day war by the US and Israel on Iran last year, Tehran passed a law suspending cooperation with the IAEA. In September, Iran agreed to allow inspectors to return, but they were denied access to bombed sites. Talks between the US and Iran continue, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicating technical talks would resume in Switzerland on June 29 or 30.

Source: www.aljazeera.com