Iran could allow IAEA inspectors access to nuclear sites if sanctions eased

October 2, 2026 at 05:30 AM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Iran could allow international inspectors to access nuclear facilities damaged during its conflict with the United States and Israel if sanctions pressure on the country is eased. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi discussed the possibility with European and Middle Eastern diplomats in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The proposal comes as annual inflation in Iran approaches 90% and the rial has lost about 30% of its value against the dollar.

Key Facts

Iran's foreign minister raised the proposal in private meetings held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
Annual inflation in Iran has approached 90%, while the rial has lost about 30% of its value against the dollar.
Araghchi urged European diplomats to reverse last year's UN decision to reinstate broad sanctions against Iran, but European officials refused.
IAEA Director Rafael Grossi announced inspectors will visit Iran's uranium enrichment facilities to verify compliance with a new US–Iran memorandum.
UK, France, Germany and Italy said they are ready to lift select sanctions on Iran if Tehran takes verified nuclear steps.

Inspectors Access Proposal

Iran could allow international inspectors to access nuclear facilities damaged during its conflict with the United States and Israel if sanctions pressure on the country is eased. Abbas Araghchi discussed the possibility with European and Middle Eastern diplomats in New York, according to Bloomberg. Araghchi said little about the economic impact of sanctions and the US naval blockade, which has restricted Iranian oil exports. Tehran's willingness to discuss inspectors' access in exchange for easing restrictions could indicate that the country is under significant economic pressure.

Sanctions Relief Demands

Araghchi also urged European diplomats to reverse last year's UN decision to reinstate broad sanctions against Iran. European officials refused the request. Allowing international inspectors access could be a concession by Tehran and help revive talks with the United States. UK, France, Germany and Italy said they are ready to lift select sanctions on Iran if Tehran takes verified nuclear steps, aligning with a US Iran ceasefire framework and upcoming G7 talks.

IAEA Verification Plans

IAEA Director Rafael Grossi announced inspectors will visit Iran's uranium enrichment facilities to verify compliance with a new US–Iran memorandum and monitor reduced enrichment levels. Marco Rubio demanded that Iran's delegation leave the United States after talks with Tehran stalled. The delegation flew to Doha as Qatari mediators continued efforts to find a compromise.