Former President Donald Trump announced on social media Tuesday that Iran has "fully and completely" agreed to the "highest level nuclear inspections long into the future (Infinity!!!)." Trump added that this will ensure "Nuclear Honesty" and warned that had Iran not agreed, "there would be no further negotiations!"
Trump's Claims and Conditions
Trump stated that based on Iran's agreement and other major concessions, he allowed the Strait of Hormuz to remain open with no further naval blockade. However, he noted that all ships remain in place should a blockade need to be reinstated, which he deemed "highly unlikely." Trump also claimed that money or sanctions relief from the U.S. Treasury would go into escrow controlled by the U.S., used exclusively for purchasing food and medical supplies from American farmers, including corn, wheat, and soybeans. He described this as addressing a humanitarian crisis.
Iran's Denial and Stance
Iran swiftly contradicted Trump's assertions. Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said at a press briefing that the UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), will not be able to inspect key nuclear sites bombed by the U.S. and Israel last year. "We have not had a meeting with the director general of the IAEA, nor do we have any plans for the agency to inspect Iran’s nuclear facilities damaged by the US and Zionist military aggression," Baghaei stated. On Monday, Baghaei told the official IRNA news agency that Iran's interaction with the IAEA will continue according to current procedures, subject to approval by Iran’s parliament and decisions of the Supreme National Security Council.
Continued Tensions
The conflicting statements highlight ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program. While Trump claims progress in negotiations and humanitarian aid, Iran insists on its own procedures and rejects inspections of damaged sites. The situation remains fluid, with both sides maintaining their positions.
