UN Nuclear Watchdog: US-Iran Nuclear Talks at 'Crucial Stage'

IAEA Chief's Visit to Tehran

• IAEA Chief Rafael Mariano Grossi described the current talks between the US and Iran regarding Tehran's nuclear program as being at a 'very crucial' stage.
• 💡 Grossi emphasized the urgency, stating, "We know we don't have much time," and that his visit aims to facilitate the process.
• 🎯 The IAEA seeks to regain full access to Iran's nuclear sites for inspectors, as some access has been previously barred and surveillance cameras disrupted.

Iran's Nuclear Program Advancements

• 📈 Since the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, following the US withdrawal, Iran has abandoned limits on its program.
• ⚡ Iran is enriching uranium to up to 60% purity, which is close to weapons-grade levels of 90%.
• ⚠️ Washington desires a halt to this enrichment program, but Tehran has indicated it is not up for discussion.

Potential Deal and IAEA's Role

• 🤝 The Iranian foreign minister acknowledged the IAEA's potential role in verifying compliance should a new deal be reached with Washington.
• 💬 Iran recognizes the IAEA's importance in the coming months, despite past "ups and downs" in cooperation.
• 🗓️ Indirect negotiations between Iran and the US, mediated by Oman, are set to resume on Saturday in Rome.