CAIRO – Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) finalized a technical agreement in Cairo on September 9, 2025, to re-establish cooperation and resume inspections at Iranian nuclear facilities. The accord, brokered with Egypt's facilitation, was reached between IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
This agreement follows a period of heightened tensions, including Israeli and American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear installations in June 2025. In response, Iran had suspended its cooperation with the IAEA in July 2025, setting new conditions for inspections. The recent deal aims to address Iran's security and technical concerns, with Tehran issuing a warning that any hostile actions, such as the re-imposition of United Nations sanctions, would void the agreement.
The development occurs as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have initiated the process to reinstate UN sanctions on Iran, citing Iran's non-compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal and its accumulation of 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%. The European Union has expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the need for swift implementation of the new agreement. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi confirmed that the agreement provides access for inspections at Iran's nuclear facilities and requires Iran to report on nuclear materials at sites previously affected by conflict-related incidents. The agreement outlines inspection procedures, though specific details remain undisclosed.
Iran's current stockpile of 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to 60% is considered a significant concern by experts, as further enrichment could bring it closer to weapons-grade material. The IAEA is working to align Iran's domestic laws with its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. This agreement marks a pivotal moment in rebuilding trust and enhancing transparency in Iran's nuclear program, with the coming weeks crucial to determining if it can mitigate European pressure for sanctions and contribute to broader regional de-escalation.