Iran to Hold 'Technical' Talks with IAEA Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran has announced that forthcoming discussions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will be "technical" and "complicated," marking the first engagement since Tehran severed ties with the agency in July. This development follows a 12-day air conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, during which key Iranian nuclear facilities were bombed.

Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that IAEA Deputy Director General Massimo Aparo met with an Iranian delegation to discuss the method of interaction between the agency and Iran. No access to nuclear sites was granted during this visit. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei criticized the IAEA for not condemning the attacks on Iran’s monitored facilities. Future cooperation with the IAEA will require approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council, potentially further restricting inspections of Iran's uranium enrichment activities, which have reached near weapons-grade levels.

This development follows President Masoud Pezeshkian's suspension of cooperation with the IAEA after U.S. airstrikes killed over 1,000 individuals, including Iranian military commanders. The incident reflects heightened tensions and uncertain prospects for renewed nuclear negotiations with Washington.

The IAEA is responsible for monitoring Iran's compliance with nuclear agreements. Tensions have escalated following the recent conflict, with Iran expressing dissatisfaction over the IAEA's response to attacks on its facilities.

In June 2025, a 12-day air conflict erupted between Iran, Israel, and the U.S., resulting in significant casualties and damage to Iranian nuclear facilities. The conflict ended with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on June 23, 2025.

Iran has been enriching uranium up to 60% purity, approaching weapons-grade levels. The IAEA has expressed serious concern over this development.

The strained relations between Iran and the IAEA, coupled with recent conflicts, have heightened tensions in the Middle East, affecting diplomatic relations and regional stability.

The conflict has led to disruptions in global travel and economic activities in the region. Airlines have faced delays, suspensions, and cancellations, particularly in countries close to the conflict zones.

The upcoming technical discussions between Iran and the IAEA are pivotal in determining the future of Iran's nuclear program and its compliance with international agreements. The outcome will significantly influence regional stability and global non-proliferation efforts.