Iran agrees to allow IAEA to inspect two suspected nuclear sites 'to resolve the issues'

Iran has agreed to allow inspectors from International Atomic Energy ncy (IAEA) to visit country's two suspected nuclear sites for verification activities.

Islamic Republic and United Nations' nuclear watchdog reached an agreement on Wednesday, August 26 that would allow IAEA to visit two suspected nuclear cities in Tehran and Isfahan. agreement comes amid IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi's high-level visit to Iran. 

Read: UN Security Council President Rejects US Attempt To Return All Sanctions On Iran

Following talks between Grossi and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, two sides issued a joint press statement saying, "After intensive bilateral consultations, Iran and IAEA reached an agreement on resolution of safeguards implementation issues specified by IAEA, in good faith. In this regard, Iran is voluntarily providing IAEA with access to two locations specified by IAEA and facilitating IAEA verification activities to resolve se issues."

Read: E3 Allies Urge Dialogue Over Iran's n-compliance

Tehran had long-denied permission to IAEA for inspection in country, arguing that it was due to baseless allegations from foe Israel. But Islamic Republic finally agreed after continuous pressure from UN body over past few months.

IAEA in June passes a resolution calling on Iran to allow its inspectors to physically verify two suspected nuclear sites. According to reports, Iran has agreed to allow inspection of a condition that IAEA would pursue furr questions regarding issue. 

Read: IAEA Chief Arrives In Tehran To Seek Access To Suspected Iranian Nuclear Sites

As per joint statement, dates for IAEA access and verification activities have been agreed upon. "Activities will proceed in accordance with CSA and AP, and IAEA’s standard verification practice as implemented for all States with CSAs and APs on an equal basis and without discrimination," statement read.

development comes ahead of Joint Commission meeting in September on landmark 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and major powers of world, including United States. However, Trump administration backed off from deal in 2018 calling it 'horrible one-sided agreement'. 

2015 deal

Under deal, it was agreed that Iran would scale down its uranium enrichment programme and in exchange international sanctions against country would be lifted. However, after Trump's withdrawal, United States reimposed sanctions on country preventing it from selling oil and gas to world, which is a major source of income for Middle East nation.  

Read: Iran Foreign Ministry Spokesman Says IAEA Chief To Visit Tehran Today