Iran has denied claims that it will allow nuclear inspectors back into the country, despite Vice President JD Vance saying discussions with the International Atomic Energy Agency could start as soon as possible.
The denial comes after the first round of talks between Washington and Tehran in Switzerland, where Vance said a “very good foundation” had been laid for a final deal to end the conflict. The US has temporarily waived sanctions, allowing Iran to sell oil in US dollars for the first time in decades.
Nuclear Inspections
The US Treasury’s 60-day sanctions waiver dismantles key pillars of Washington’s long-running embargo, which has historically hurt Tehran’s economy. The waiver authorizes the production, sale, and delivery of Iranian crude and petrochemicals until August 21.
Iranian oil can now be imported directly into the US, and the waiver unlocks banking transactions, insurance, and transportation. However, Iran’s foreign ministry said Tehran had made “no new commitments” on nuclear inspections, and any engagement with UN inspectors would follow existing procedures.
The International Atomic Energy Agency suspended its access to Iranian sites bombed by Israel and the US during the 12-day war last summer. The UN’s nuclear watchdog pulled out its remaining inspectors from the country the following month.
Implications and Next Steps
The US and Iran have agreed to a “roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days,” according to a joint statement by mediators Qatar and Pakistan. The statement also mentioned the creation of a “de-confliction cell” to end military operations in Lebanon.
US President Donald Trump warned Iran that if it doesn’t live up to its agreement, he will “do what I have to do.” The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has held since Saturday night, and negotiating groups will be set up to cover areas such as nuclear issues and sanctions.
The temporary waiver of sanctions and the potential return of nuclear inspectors mark a significant shift in US-Iran relations, and the outcome of these talks will have far-reaching implications for regional stability and global security.
