Grossi: The Islamic Republic is Increasing Its Nuclear Capabilities; Inspections Are Not Adequate in Scope and Depth

Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated on Friday that the Islamic Republic is increasing its nuclear capabilities, and despite the IAEA actively conducting inspections, these inspections are insufficient. In an interview with PBS, Grossi emphasized that the Islamic Republic is inclined towards maximizing enrichment, although Iran's nuclear program has become very complex and has various aspects. Grossi noted, "IAEA inspectors must be able to carry out their inspection duties with full authority, but currently, inspections are not being conducted to the extent and depth required by the nature of the nuclear program." He reminded Iranian officials that "we must restore the inspection processes." Grossi highlighted the "importance of diplomacy," stating that the 2015 JCPOA has now become an "empty shell" and that none of the parties are fulfilling their responsibilities, and unfortunately, there is no negotiation or diplomacy in this context. He mentioned that there are concerns, and the IAEA is the only point of contact trying to bring the parties closer and report on what is happening. Grossi stressed that we are diligently pursuing the case and expect "negotiation and diplomacy" to be involved; this is necessary and inevitable. The United States warned the Iranian government on Thursday, March 8, that continued "obstruction" regarding cooperation with the IAEA would pave the way for further actions by the Board of Governors, including the possibility of issuing more resolutions against the Islamic Republic. During the quarterly meeting of the Board of Governors, attended by its 35 members, the U.S. urged the Islamic Republic to cooperate with IAEA inspectors who have long sought explanations from Iran regarding the origin of uranium particles at some undeclared sites. Grossi expressed regret and concern over the lack of cooperation from the Islamic Republic and the increase in enriched uranium reserves. Secretary of State Blinken praised Grossi for the IAEA's efforts regarding the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Grossi stated that he discussed Iran's nuclear program with Putin. The U.S. warned the Iranian government about the continued "obstruction" of cooperation with the IAEA. The necessity of safety at the Ukrainian nuclear power plant; the IAEA Secretary-General has gone to Russia. The European Troika warned the Islamic Republic: Stop "unauthorized" enrichment. The U.S. stated that the Islamic Republic must "dilute" all of its 60% enriched uranium reserves. A group of Republican senators urged the Biden administration to condemn the Islamic Republic at the IAEA meeting. Grossi stated that Iran's enriched uranium reserves continue to increase.