Iran has dismissed U.S. claims that it agreed to allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to inspect nuclear facilities damaged in recent Israeli and American military strikes. The statement contradicts remarks made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who said during talks with Iran in Switzerland that Tehran had agreed to invite IAEA inspectors to its nuclear sites — calling it a “significant step toward complete denuclearization,” meaning the universal termination of Iran’s nuclear weapons program.
Tehran Denies Agreement
Iranian officials have categorically denied Vance’s assertion. Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated at a press conference in Tehran that Iran did not hold any meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. He added: “We do not foresee IAEA inspections of nuclear facilities struck by the American and Zionist military attack.”
Ali Bahreini, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, also refuted the claim, saying such discussions are “premature” and belong to a “next phase” under a protocol agreement signed the previous week. “Any information on this matter is incorrect,” he told journalists.
Background: Strikes and Fallout
In June 2025, during a 12-day conflict triggered by an Israeli strike on Iran, the United States bombed three Iranian nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. At the time, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed the attacks had “eliminated” Iran’s nuclear program. The Natanz complex was again targeted in the most recent war. The extent of the damage remains unclear, and Iran cites security concerns as justification for restricting access to these sites.
In July 2025, following the strikes, Iran’s parliament passed legislation suspending all cooperation with the IAEA — accusing the UN agency of failing to condemn the U.S.-Israeli military action. However, in September 2025, Iran agreed to resume limited IAEA oversight under a new cooperation framework. Since then, IAEA personnel have visited Iran, including the Bushehr nuclear facility. Crucially, however, they have not been granted access to areas damaged in the bombings.
No Formal Protocol Exists
“In essence, there is no relevant protocol on this issue,” reiterated the Iranian diplomatic spokesperson today — underscoring Tehran’s firm position against third-party inspections of its war-damaged nuclear infrastructure.