Iran claims IAEA held 'recent' inspection at Bushehr plant: What to know
The IAEA has continued inspections at sites that were not damaged in US and Israeli strikes, but it has been unable to return to facilities targeted in the attacks.
Iran said Monday that inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency had recently inspected its Bushehr nuclear power plant, as Qatar’s prime minister prepared to meet with President Donald Trump in an effort to bridge differences between Tehran and Washington over a deal to end the war.
What happened: Speaking at a press briefing in Tehran on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said that Iran’s mission in Vienna remains in contact with the IAEA and that the recent inspection “serves as evidence that this regulated cooperation continues.” He said that the inspection took place “a few days ago.” The IAEA has not confirmed the inspection.
Baghaei nevertheless criticized the IAEA for its response to attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities by Israel and the US, accusing the agency of failing to meet its legal obligations.
Bushehr is Iran's only operating nuclear power plant, located on the country's southern coast. Unlike the uranium-enrichment facilities at Natanz and Fordow, the plant, built by Russia, generates electricity. It also contains nuclear fuel and spent fuel. The IAEA last inspected the plant in June.
