Tehran: Iran is considering the possible participation of Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in the next round of nuclear negotiations with the United States, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on Sunday.
According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Baghaei stated that the possibility of Grossi’s involvement was under consideration, noting that he had played a role during the previous round of talks. However, he added that no final decision had yet been made.
Responding to a question regarding a potential visit by IAEA inspectors to Iranian nuclear facilities damaged during US strikes in June 2025, the spokesman said the matter required a mutually agreed mechanism, taking into account legal provisions passed by Iran’s parliament. He noted that although regular contacts with the agency were ongoing, discussions had not yet reached an operational stage.
Earlier, the White House had warned that it was prepared to use force if Tehran failed to engage in negotiations aimed at reaching what it described as a fair agreement under which Iran would abandon any plans to acquire nuclear weapons. Iranian authorities have repeatedly denied seeking nuclear arms.
The second round of US-Iran nuclear talks was held on February 17 in Geneva, mediated by Oman. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the two sides had reached understandings on several issues that could form the basis of a future draft agreement.
Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance said progress had been made in certain areas, but Tehran was not yet ready to accept some key positions outlined by Washington. Previously, the United States and Israel had insisted that Iran halt its nuclear programme, ballistic missile development, and support for allied groups in the region.