**Title: UN Nuclear Chief Confirms Inspections in Iran, Conditional on US Agreement**
**Date: June 24, 2026**
The Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, announced that inspections at Iran's nuclear facilities are set to occur, although their implementation is contingent upon the finalization of an agreement between Iran and the United States. Grossi made these statements during a recent visit to Japan, emphasizing the importance of oversight regarding Iran's nuclear activities.
Grossi highlighted that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the United States explicitly states that all nuclear activities related to nuclear material facilities in Iran will be supervised by the IAEA. He remarked, “Obviously, to do that, we will have to inspect,” indicating that the agency is preparing for the necessary inspections.
While Grossi affirmed that inspections would take place, he noted that the specific dates and locations for these inspections are still under discussion. He assured that decisions would be made in collaboration with the Iranian government, stating, “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.”
In response to Grossi's comments, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated that access for UN inspectors to Iran's nuclear sites would be determined solely within the context of a final agreement with the United States. He emphasized that inspections are dependent on the US taking practical steps to lift all sanctions imposed on Iran.
Gharibabadi also mentioned that during recent negotiations in Switzerland, no Iranian officials met with Grossi, despite his request for discussions. This indicates a level of tension and complexity in the ongoing diplomatic relations between Iran and the IAEA.
Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, further clarified that there is currently no “clear schedule” for IAEA inspections of Iran’s nuclear facilities, particularly those that have been targeted in attacks attributed to the US and Israel. This statement underscores the challenges that remain in establishing a framework for cooperation between Iran and the IAEA.
In a separate statement, US President Donald Trump confirmed that IAEA inspectors would be heading to Iran but indicated that there is “no rush” for the inspections to commence. This reflects the cautious approach being taken by the US in the ongoing negotiations.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also commented on the negotiations, asserting that there have been no discussions regarding Iran's ballistic missile program, nor are there plans to engage in such talks. This statement highlights the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran's military capabilities in addition to its nuclear program.
The backdrop to these developments includes a history of strained relations between Iran, the US, and Israel, particularly following a 12-day conflict last year that led Iran to suspend cooperation with the IAEA. However, in September, Iran agreed to allow inspectors to return under a new framework, and IAEA officials have since visited the country, including the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
Despite these visits, access to sites that have been bombed remains restricted, indicating ongoing disputes regarding transparency and oversight of Iran's nuclear activities. As negotiations between the US and Iran continue, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism that technical discussions would resume in Switzerland on June 29 or 30.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant developments as both parties navigate the complexities of their agreement and the implications for regional security and nuclear non-proliferation.