International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi welcomed a peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran on Thursday [2].

The deal represents a pivotal shift in diplomatic relations between the two nations, as the IAEA must now verify that nuclear constraints are being met to prevent proliferation.

Speaking from Geneva, Switzerland, Grossi said the agreement has now entered a technical phase [1]. This stage focuses on the implementation of inspections, and verification mechanisms necessary to monitor nuclear activity [1].

Grossi said the ultimate success of the agreement depends on the political will of both sides [1, 2]. He said that sustained cooperation is required for the agency's oversight to remain effective [1, 2].

While the IAEA chief expressed optimism regarding the interim deal, reports on the current state of cooperation vary. Some accounts suggest the technical work is beginning under a spirit of cooperation [2]. However, other reports indicate that Grossi said the agency's satisfaction with Iranian cooperation is a work in progress [2].

The agency's role is to ensure that nuclear materials and activities are not diverted for military purposes. The transition to this technical phase allows inspectors to begin the rigorous process of validating claims made by both governments during the negotiation process.

“The agreement has now entered a technical phase.”

The transition from a political agreement to a technical phase shifts the burden of proof from diplomats to inspectors. The IAEA's ability to verify compliance is the only objective measure of the deal's viability, meaning any friction between Tehran and the agency could jeopardize the broader peace agreement.