Ankara: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Sunday that unexploded bombs remain at nuclear facilities that were struck by the United States last year.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi, speaking to Iran's Young Journalists Club news agency, revealed that he queried International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi about the existence of any laws or protocols for visiting US-targeted nuclear sites. Grossi reportedly responded that no such regulations exist.

Araghchi stressed the importance of establishing a protocol for nuclear facility visits due to "existing security issues," including unexploded bombs. He emphasized that inspections should only proceed after these security matters are resolved, adding that Iran is in ongoing discussions with the IAEA on this issue.

The backdrop to these concerns is last June's 12-day military operation, when Israel, with US backing, attacked Iran's military and nuclear infrastructure. This included US bombings of three nuclear sites before a ceasefire was declared. Iran retaliated by targeting Israeli military and intelligence locations.

Araghchi expressed distrust towards the US, indicating uncertainty about the future of negotiations between Tehran and Washington. "They tried everything and failed, and now they have returned to the negotiating table," he stated, highlighting the potential for deception. He urged Iranian institutions to continue their functions independently of these developments.

The dialogue between Iran and the US resumed in Muscat, Oman, on Friday, following a period of escalated tensions due to a US military presence in the Persian Gulf near Iran.