A final judgement on Iran’s alleged nuclear weapons projects will only be issued after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has a full understanding of the country’s nuclear programme, IAEA chief Yukiya Amano said on Monday.
The six world powers currently negotiating a deal with Iran to end the nuclear stand-off want Tehran to quickly answer the IAEA’s questions about alleged research and development of key nuclear weapons components.
Mr. Amano made clear that this would take time, even tough he praised Tehran’s current cooperation.
“The agency will provide its assessment in due course, after acquiring a good understanding of the whole picture,” he said at the start of the IAEA board’s summer session.
In May, Tehran agreed to start opening up about other projects as well, including testing of high explosives.
“Iran has engaged with the Agency substantively, including in the clarification of issues related to the use of exploding bridge wire detonators,” Mr. Amano said. “Iran’s engagement with the Agency has helped us to gain a better understanding of its nuclear programme,” he added.
