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Iran's nuclear chief urges Grossi to stick to his IAEA mandate after NPT jab

Wednesday, 28 January 2026 4:04 PM [ Last Update: Wednesday, 28 January 2026 4:39 PM ]

Mohammad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI)

The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) has cautioned the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) against using threatening language, urging him to act within the legal boundaries of his mandate.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting, Mohammad Eslami referred to recent comments by IAEA chief Rafael Grossi regarding Iran’s commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

"Our expectation from Mr. Grossi is that he does not use such language," Eslami said.

"He is the Director General of the IAEA, an entity defined under the United Nations, and its statute sets clear duties for him. We expect him to adhere to his legal obligations in his language and reports."

The exchange follows an interview Grossi gave to Reuters last week, where he said that while the IAEA had inspected 13 declared nuclear facilities that were not targeted last June, the agency had been unable to access the three key sites that were bombed during the US-Israeli attacks that same month.

Grossi said Iran had to meet its obligations as a party to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. "This cannot go on like this for a long time without me, unfortunately, having to declare them in non-compliance."

Eslami, however, said the IAEA must first clarify its stance on the attacks before demanding inspections of the bombed facilities.

Iran warns US threats against nuclear sites endanger IAEA credibility, NPT

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Eslami said while IAEA regulations provide protocols for natural disasters at nuclear facilities, the agency has no clear procedures for military attacks. "The Agency must announce what its procedures are regarding military attacks so that we can act accordingly."

Grossi has notably refrained from condemning or criticizing the US-Israeli aggression of June.

'Nuclear progress is a national right'

Eslami also addressed the development of Iran’s nuclear program, accusing Western powers of attempting to stifle the country's technological advancement.

He said developed nations, particularly the United States, prioritize nuclear development in their own national security strategies.

"The same document recently signed and issued by the US President [Donald Trump] places the development of nuclear technology and AI at the top of their priorities," Eslami stated.

"When these fields are considered strategic priorities for their own progress, it is the natural right of the Iranian nation to prioritize these technologies as well."

The nuclear chief said Iran is pursuing its programs based on national interests and will not allow any stagnation in its technological development despite external pressures.

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