### Narrowing Opportunities for Diplomacy as Iran's Nuclear Program Advances, Warns IAEA Chief

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), issued a stark warning on Thursday, suggesting that the window for negotiation and diplomacy regarding Iran's advancing nuclear program is shrinking. This comes amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the anticipation of President Donald Trump's return to the White House.

During his visit to Tehran, Grossi focused on restoring IAEA inspectors' access to Iran's nuclear facilities and addressing unresolved questions. Despite these efforts, his past visits have yielded limited success since the United States, under Trump, unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear accord with Iran.

At a joint news conference with Mohammad Eslami of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Grossi emphasized the need for "concrete, tangible, and visible results" to demonstrate that ongoing negotiations were moving the situation away from potential conflict and war. The collapse of the nuclear agreement in 2018 led Iran to move beyond the previously imposed limits on its nuclear program, enriching uranium up to 60% purity, which is close to weapons-grade levels of 90%.

Complications have further increased as surveillance cameras installed by the IAEA have been interfered with, and Iran has restricted the access of some of the agency's most experienced inspectors. Additionally, Iranian officials have hinted at the possibility of developing atomic weapons, a longtime concern for the West and the IAEA since Iran ceased its organized weapons program in 2003.

Addressing the media alongside Eslami, Grossi reiterated that the surrounding international and regional tensions made diplomatic solutions more challenging. Following discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who expressed willingness for cooperation and dialogue but rejected negotiations under pressure, it became clear that significant gaps persist.

Suggestions have come from some quarters that Iran might abandon the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and pursue nuclear weapons. While Araghchi affirmed Iran’s commitment to the NPT, Eslami warned of retaliatory measures if Iran is targeted in the upcoming IAEA Board of Governors' meeting. Grossi acknowledged that some nations are considering action against Iran.

The news conference also saw pointed criticisms directed at Israel for its alleged sabotage and assassination efforts aimed at Iran's nuclear program. Israeli threats to target Iran’s nuclear sites were highlighted, especially as tensions escalate between the two nations amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and Israel’s operations in Lebanon.

Grossi underscored the importance of finding solutions through cooperation with Iran to mitigate tensions. His optimism was evident as he expressed confidence that progress could be made. Notably, Grossi's itinerary includes a visit to Iran’s Fordo and Natanz nuclear enrichment sites on Friday, following his first meeting with the reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian.