Iran has clarified that the return of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors to the country does not signify a full resumption of nuclear cooperation. Instead, the move reflects a limited arrangement under Iran’s existing domestic laws governing nuclear oversight.

According to officials in Tehran, while inspectors may be permitted to enter the country, their access to Iranian nuclear sites is restricted. As per the law suspending broader cooperation, the Supreme National Security Council—Iran’s top security body—must grant explicit approval before inspectors can carry out any site visits or monitoring activities.

Context of Iran’s nuclear cooperation limits

Iran’s decision to scale down cooperation with the IAEA dates back to the fallout of the 2018 U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal. Since then, Tehran has gradually reduced compliance with the pact, citing lack of economic relief despite continuing sanctions.

The law passed by Iran’s parliament restricts full cooperation with the nuclear watchdog unless sanctions are lifted. As a result, the IAEA’s access to nuclear facilities has been severely curtailed, making it difficult for the international community to monitor Iran’s nuclear programme.

The latest clarification

By stressing that the return of IAEA inspectors is not a full resumption, Iranian officials are signaling that the country is still cautious about international oversight. This position underscores:

• Iran’s insistence on linking nuclear transparency to sanctions relief.

• The central role of the Supreme National Security Council in authorising inspections.

• Tehran’s continued defiance of what it considers unilateral pressure from the West.

The clarification aims to temper any speculation that Iran has softened its nuclear stance ahead of potential negotiations.

Implications for global diplomacy

The IAEA has repeatedly expressed concerns over restricted access to Iran’s nuclear programme, warning that the lack of transparency undermines its ability to guarantee that Iran’s activities remain peaceful.

This latest statement suggests that:

• Negotiations between Iran and world powers on reviving or reworking the JCPOA remain complex.

• Iran is unwilling to return to pre-2019 levels of nuclear cooperation without guarantees on sanctions.

• The global community faces ongoing challenges in ensuring nuclear non-proliferation in the region.

Conclusion

The return of IAEA inspectors to Iran should not be mistaken for a complete turnaround in nuclear policy. Tehran has made it clear that while it will allow limited monitoring under strict domestic controls, it is far from resuming the full cooperation expected under the nuclear deal.

This position keeps the Iran nuclear issue unresolved, placing greater pressure on future diplomatic talks between Iran, the U.S., European powers, and the wider international community.

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