Nuclear site inspections will happen, but timing "not essential," IAEA chief says

CBS News | June 24, 2026

Summary

IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi says nuclear inspections at Iran's atomic sites are "going to happen," but the timing is not yet set. The MoU does not specify a timeframe — saying only that all nuclear enrichment matters will be agreed as part of a final deal.

Key Points

IAEA: Inspections Will Happen — Timing Unspecified

  • Grossi: "Whether this happens the day after tomorrow or in one week or in 10 days, it's important, but not essential. This is going to happen."
  • The MoU states that IAEA inspections are "going to happen" but sets no specific timeframe
  • Iran's uranium is to be "downblended" from highly enriched levels under the MoU framework

Iranian Position

  • Iran says inspections are contingent on finalization of a comprehensive agreement with the US
  • Senior Iranian official: timing is linked to completion of full nuclear deal

The Downblending Provision

  • The MoU calls for Iran's uranium to be downblended from its currently highly enriched levels
  • This is a significant concession from Iran, but the mechanism and timeline remain undefined

Source

  • CBS News (https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/us-iran-trump-deal-nuclear-inspections-iaea-timing-not-essential/)