Tehran weighs inspector return offer

Iranian officials are expected to provide an answer to a Qatari mediation proposal by Thursday. The plan would allow inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency to return to Iranian nuclear facilities. In return, Tehran would receive sanctions relief and the potential release of frozen funds. Two regional diplomats told The Jerusalem Post that the response could arrive as early as this week.

IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi briefed the UN Security Council on Tuesday. He stated that the return of inspectors is the only method to determine the current status of Iran's nuclear program. Grossi invited Iran to work with the agency to clarify outstanding safeguards questions. He emphasized that Iran has a legal obligation to provide the information and access required for verification.

The proposal attempts to bridge a gap in negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Iran has demanded that the United States lift its blockade and offer sanctions relief before nuclear talks begin. The Trump administration insists that Iran must take an initial step on the nuclear issue at the start of any agreement. Allowing inspectors to reenter the country would serve as that initial step.

Senior officials from mediating countries warned Iranian counterparts that this deal represents a final opportunity. They described the moment as the last chance before President Trump decides to launch a military operation against Iran. Anna Kelly, the White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary, told The Jerusalem Post that the United States will not attack Iran before the midterm elections.

Kelly noted that President Trump stated Iran is in very bad condition, both economically and militarily. She confirmed that the blockade remains in full force and effect. Kelly added that oil is flowing in record numbers of barrels through the Hormuz Strait. The midterm elections are scheduled to be held next Tuesday.