Iran Nuclear Program: Grossi Warns of ‘Enormous Damage’ & Urges International Deal

Iran’s Nuclear Program Remains a Threat Despite Damage, IAEA Chief Warns

Amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi has stated that Iran’s nuclear program, while significantly damaged by recent military actions, retains substantial capabilities. Speaking to CNN, Grossi acknowledged “enormous damage” to Iranian nuclear facilities following attacks last year, but emphasized that “elements that were not destroyed” persist. His comments come as the United States reportedly presented Iran with a fifteen-point peace plan demanding stringent restrictions on its nuclear development.

The attacks referenced by Grossi, which targeted sites in Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow in June 2025, were considered key centers for Iran’s nuclear program. While the damage was “very considerable,” Grossi cautioned against assuming complete neutralization. “What one learns, one cannot unlearn,” he stated, highlighting Iran’s accumulated knowledge and capabilities over years of development. This assessment contrasts with some intelligence estimates suggesting the strikes could have set back Iran’s program for years.

The core of the current debate centers on whether a complete cessation of enrichment activities can be imposed, or if a temporary moratorium might be achievable. Grossi noted that the concept of an inherent “right” to enrichment doesn’t exist under international law, but acknowledged that countries can pursue such activities under comprehensive IAEA inspection regimes. The US, however, has consistently stated its opposition to any Iranian enrichment program.

The US plan, as reported, calls for the dismantling of major nuclear sites, a complete halt to uranium enrichment, and the surrender of existing uranium reserves. Iran maintains its sovereign right to enrichment under international supervision. Grossi suggested a potential compromise could involve a temporary suspension of enrichment activities as a confidence-building measure, though he refrained from predicting the outcome of future negotiations.

A particularly concerning aspect highlighted by Grossi is the quantity of enriched uranium currently stockpiled in Isfahan – enough, he warned, to potentially develop more than ten nuclear weapons. He stressed the importance of allowing IAEA inspectors access to verify the material’s disposition, noting that the last inspection took place in June 2025. “A negotiated solution would offer greater guarantees than any military action,” he argued, as an attack cannot ensure total destruction or prevent proliferation.

The ongoing conflict, which began in February 2026, has broadened the scope of concerns beyond the nuclear program itself. Grossi pointed out that the recent war has had objectives extending far beyond the nuclear sphere. He also acknowledged Iran’s technological proficiency, stating that while enrichment is a complex process, it can be replicated in dispersed facilities, as Iran has mastered both the methodology and the manufacturing of centrifuges.

The question of Iran’s reliability as a negotiating partner was also raised. Grossi described the Iranian delegation as “rational and sophisticated,” defending its national interests at the negotiating table. He added, “I’ve been negotiating with them for years. They are extremely intelligent and defend their positions, just as the United States and Israel do.”

The legality of the conflict under international law remains a contentious issue. Grossi refrained from offering a definitive judgment, noting that since 1945, only two conflicts – the Korean War and the First Gulf War – have been fully aligned with the UN Charter. He emphasized the UN’s role in resolving problems rather than engaging in academic debates about legal interpretations. Grossi is currently a candidate for the position of UN Secretary-General.

Looking ahead, the future of Iran’s nuclear program and regional security hinges on the ability of all parties to reach a verifiable agreement that ensures effective control over Iran’s nuclear activities. The international community will be closely monitoring developments at Iranian nuclear facilities and the evolution of the broader conflict, with the IAEA playing a crucial role in inspection and verification efforts.