Iran Sets Firm Boundaries on Nuclear Inspections, Limiting IAEA Access
Iran has recently released an official video statement featuring Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly. The video, published on the evening of July 1st, outlines Iran's latest and firm stance regarding inspections of its nuclear facilities.
Parliament Speaker Denies Rumors, Cites Legal Mandate
In the address, Ghalibaf directly countered a circulating narrative. He stated that reports suggesting "Iran would permit International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors into sabotaged nuclear sites" were incorrect and did not reflect state policy.
This position is grounded in a specific legal enactment. Ghalibaf explained that the Iranian parliament passed a law, which subsequently received approval from the Supreme National Security Council. This law explicitly prohibits, in any form, allowing access to nuclear facilities that have been destroyed or damaged.
Access Granted Only to Two Specific Facilities
So, where can the IAEA actually conduct inspections? Ghalibaf provided a precise and limited scope. Under the current legal framework, IAEA inspectors are permitted access to only two designated locations:
- The Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant: Iran's sole commercial nuclear power station.
- The Tehran Research Reactor: A facility primarily used for medical isotope production and research.
He underscored that Iran would not, and could not, grant any privileges or additional access beyond the permissions set by the Supreme National Security Council. This declaration firmly establishes Iran's red lines, insisting that all inspection activities must strictly conform to its domestic laws and national security framework.
This public reaffirmation of a restrictive inspection policy comes amid stalled negotiations surrounding the nuclear deal, signaling a tightening of Iran's openness and confining transparency to a narrow set of civilian facilities.