Vice President JD Vance announced on Monday that Iran has agreed to allow United Nations nuclear inspectors to return to the country, following talks in Switzerland. In response, the United States temporarily suspended sanctions on Iranian oil, according to a statement from the White House.
The agreement, reached last week between Tehran and Washington, marks a significant diplomatic step. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed it had received a formal request from Iran to resume inspections at several nuclear sites, though specific locations were not disclosed.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the development, stating, 'This is a positive step toward ensuring Iran's nuclear program remains peaceful.' However, he cautioned that the sanctions suspension is temporary and subject to Iran's full compliance with IAEA requirements.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a press conference that the decision was made 'in the spirit of goodwill' and that Tehran expects the US to lift all sanctions permanently. The talks in Switzerland were mediated by Swiss diplomats, who have historically facilitated US-Iran communications.
Analysts note that the deal is fragile, as previous agreements have faltered. The IAEA will begin inspections within two weeks, and the US will review Iran's compliance before any further sanctions relief.
