IAEA Chief's Urgent Plea for Diplomacy Amid Iran Nuclear Crisis

Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), delivered a grave warning to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) regarding the escalating situation in Iran, posing a significant threat to the nuclear non-proliferation regime that has safeguarded global security for over five decades.

Grossi called for a diplomatic resolution, urging involved parties to reconvene negotiations and allow IAEA inspectors to access Iran's nuclear sites. His remarks followed the US-led Operation Midnight Hammer that targeted Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. He emphasized the urgency of reestablishing peace in the Middle East through open dialogue and comprehensive inspections.

Highlighting the widening conflict's potential catastrophic impacts, Grossi stated the immediate need for dialogue to prevent dire consequences. He reported damages at Iranian nuclear sites and stressed that any agreement requires precise assessments by IAEA inspectors. Grossi assured continued monitoring and expressed his readiness to travel and engage with all parties to ensure nuclear facility protection.

(With inputs from agencies.)