Qatar Waits on Iran's Answer to Proposal Tying IAEA Inspections to Sanctions Relief
Two regional diplomats say Doha has put forward a plan under which Iran would let UN nuclear inspectors return in exchange for sanctions relief, with a reply possible as early as Thursday.
By Samir Lin ·
Qatar is waiting for Tehran to respond to a new proposal that would have Iran take a limited step on its nuclear program in return for sanctions relief and possibly the release of frozen funds, according to two regional diplomats who spoke to The Jerusalem Post. One of the diplomats said a response could arrive as early as Thursday.
Under the measure being considered, inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) would be allowed back into Iran's nuclear sites. Iran would receive sanctions relief in exchange.
The idea gained added weight after IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi briefed the UN Security Council on Tuesday. He told members that only the return of inspectors on the ground could give an accurate picture of the current state of Iran's nuclear program.
"I invite Iran to work with the IAEA without any further delay to clarify outstanding safeguards questions and to give the IAEA the information and access the agency requires, so that it can verify all relevant facilities and material, as is Iran's legal obligation," Grossi said.
The offer arrives as talks between Washington and Tehran continue to struggle. Iran has demanded that the United States lift its blockade and provide some sanctions relief before any discussion of its nuclear program can start. The Trump administration has held that Iran must take an initial nuclear step from the very beginning of any agreement.
The return of IAEA inspectors could serve as a starting point for narrowing that gap, while also allowing the international community to assess where Iran's nuclear activities stand.
Senior officials from the mediating countries reportedly told their Iranian counterparts that the proposal might be "the last chance before President Trump might decide to launch a military operation against Iran."
The White House struck a different note. Anna Kelly, Principal Deputy Press Secretary, told the Post that "The United States will not be attacking Iran at any time prior to the midterm elections." The midterms are scheduled for next Tuesday.
Kelly added that, as President Trump has stated, Iran is in very bad condition both economically and militarily. She said the blockade will remain in full force and effect, with oil flowing in record numbers of barrels through the Hormuz Strait.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
