Iran nuclear inspections and talks: UN nuclear chief says IAEA inspections will happen, but Iran conditions them on final US deal, amid broader peace negotiations and Gulf diplomacy

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi stated that inspections of Iran's nuclear sites will proceed under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the US and Iran, which explicitly mandates IAEA supervision. However, Iranian officials countered that UN inspectors' access is contingent on finalizing a broader agreement with the United States, including the termination of all sanctions. This public disagreement follows a 12-day war between Israel and Iran, and the MoU establishes a 60-day negotiation period to resolve outstanding issues, including Iran's enriched uranium stockpile and ballistic missile program. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio toured Gulf states to reassure allies that Washington remains 'completely aligned' with regional partners during the talks, amidst concerns that the deal may be too accommodating to Tehran. Technical negotiations are expected to resume in Switzerland next week. Meanwhile, the economic toll of the war is severe, with Iran facing high inflation, a weakened currency, and extensive damage estimated at €229 billion, alongside sanctions relief and a proposed $300 billion reconstruction fund. The IAEA's role as the arbiter of Iran's nuclear status is central, but conflicting statements from US and Iranian officials have created uncertainty over the timeline and scope of inspections.