Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has issued a stark warning that Iran is dangerously close to developing a nuclear weapon. In a recent interview with Le Monde, Grossi stated that while Iran is not yet capable of producing a nuclear bomb, it is rapidly approaching the technical capability to do so. The warning comes just before his scheduled visit to Tehran, signaling heightened urgency over Iran’s controversial nuclear program.
Grossi emphasized that Iran already possesses many of the components necessary to build a nuclear weapon, describing the situation as a “jigsaw puzzle” that could soon come together. Though he noted that Iran still has a way to go, he cautioned that the country is “not far off,” reinforcing growing international concerns over the future of Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The IAEA chief also stressed the importance of verifiable assurances from Tehran, stating that mere verbal commitments are insufficient. “It’s not enough to tell the international community ‘we don’t have nuclear weapons’ for them to believe you,” Grossi said, calling for rigorous verification mechanisms.
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Since the United States withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018 under the Trump administration, Iran has significantly ramped up its uranium enrichment activities. While Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, the increased pace of enrichment has alarmed Western nations and added strain to ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed that enrichment remains a non-negotiable aspect of Iran’s nuclear policy. “We are ready to build confidence in response to possible concerns, but the issue of enrichment is non-negotiable,” he stated, underscoring Iran’s firm stance.
Grossi’s visit to Iran comes amid intensified diplomatic engagement, including upcoming direct talks between Iran and the United States in Rome. The previous round of negotiations in Oman was described as constructive by both sides, with Iran’s Supreme Leader suggesting the talks were progressing positively. Additionally, Iran has held separate discussions with Russia, indicating a broader diplomatic strategy.
Despite renewed diplomatic channels, U.S. officials have continued to voice strong opposition to Iran’s potential acquisition of nuclear weapons. Former President Donald Trump reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear arms, labeling the regime as “radicalized” and reaffirming his administration’s position.
The upcoming talks in Rome are expected to center on technical safeguards and verification measures aimed at ensuring Iran’s nuclear activities remain peaceful. The outcome of these discussions will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Iran’s nuclear trajectory and the international community’s efforts to contain proliferation risks.
