LUCERNE, Switzerland: Iran has agreed to allow inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to return to its nuclear facilities following the first round of US–Iran talks held in Switzerland, US Vice President JD Vance said on Monday.
In his first statement after the talks on Monday, Vance described the discussions as “constructive,” saying they laid the groundwork for a potential final agreement aimed at reducing tensions and addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme.
According to Vance, coordination between Iran, the United States, and the IAEA regarding inspectors’ access could begin “this week, maybe as soon as today.” However, Iran has not yet publicly confirmed the arrangement, and details regarding the scope of access remain unclear.
He said technical-level negotiations would continue in Switzerland after senior officials concluded the current round of talks.
Vance also suggested that a broader deal could include economic measures such as the possible unfreezing of Iranian assets to facilitate purchases of American agricultural products, including soybeans, corn, and wheat.
The development comes amid ongoing international efforts to restore oversight of Iran’s nuclear activities following disruptions caused by regional conflict and earlier restrictions on inspections.
He further said both sides had established informal “mechanisms” to address disputes related to regional security issues, including tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
However, he did not provide details on these mechanisms, describing them only as ongoing dialogue and communication aimed at preventing escalation.
Vance said the arrangement, if finalized, would benefit both nations and contribute to regional stability. Technical-level discussions between US and Iranian delegations will continue, with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar facilitating the process.
Why it matters
The United States had reportedly hoped the first round of talks would conclude with Iran agreeing to allow UN nuclear inspectors access to its key facilities, which were previously struck by the US and Israel. The most recent inspection visit took place before the conflict in June 2025.
Vance did not provide details on the level of access inspectors might receive, saying only that technical teams would continue discussions in Switzerland.
Earlier, he said the US–Iran talks had established a “very good foundation” for a potential final agreement, describing it as an initial step toward a broader deal.
“The final deal is the house. We set the foundation. We haven’t built the house, but we’ve laid a successful foundation to get to a good place for the American people,” he said.
He also indicated that Washington could consider unfreezing Iranian assets to allow purchases of American agricultural products such as soybeans, corn, and wheat.
