IAEA Chief Urges Restraint Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Tensions

ICARO Media Group
Politics
14/11/2024 19h25

### IAEA Chief Grossi Urges Restraint Amid Iran-Israel Tensions

Amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi has emphasized that no country should target Tehran’s nuclear facilities. His appeal comes despite recent attacks by Iran on Israel, both directly and via proxy forces.

In a series of news conferences and meetings in Iran, Grossi stated, “Nuclear installations should not be attacked,” underscoring that it is crucial for all parties involved to take concrete steps to resolve existing issues through dialogue. Grossi’s call for restraint marks his first public statement on the matter since Iran launched attacks on Israel on April 13-14 and October 1.

During a press conference with Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, Grossi stressed the importance of achieving “tangible, visible results” to avoid the prospect of war. He also held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who expressed Tehran’s readiness to cooperate with the IAEA to clear up ambiguities around Iran’s nuclear program.

On social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, Grossi described his meeting with Pezeshkian as an essential part of his visit, providing an opportunity to engage with Iran's leadership and discuss paths forward on one of the most challenging international issues.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reiterated Tehran’s willingness to resolve disputes over its nuclear activities, though he emphasized that Iran will not yield to external pressures. European nations, including France, Britain, and Germany, are pushing for diplomatic solutions before any potential policy shift with the incoming U.S. administration.

Diplomatic sources indicate that Britain, France, and Germany are advocating for a new resolution against Iran during the IAEA board meetings scheduled for November 18-22 to address what they perceive as Tehran’s poor cooperation.

Grossi’s recent remarks underscore a period of heightened tension, noting that while Iran possesses substantial nuclear material, it has not developed a nuclear weapon. Despite these tensions, the progress anticipated from Tehran in fixing nuclear violations and cooperating with the UN watchdog has stalled.

As international pressure mounts, Grossi and his team continue their efforts to urge diplomatic engagement and transparency to prevent further escalation and ensure peaceful outcomes.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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