Vienna: The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reiterated on Friday the "crucial importance" of engaging with Iran to resume nuclear inspections, as Tehran suspended cooperation with the organization after the 12-day conflict over its nuclear program with Israel and the US. Rafael Grossi "reiterated the crucial importance of the IAEA discussing with Iran modalities for resuming its indispensable monitoring and verification activities in Iran as soon as possible," the agency said in a statement.

According to Anadolu Agency, the IAEA released a separate statement noting that its inspectors, who remained in Iran during the recent conflict initiated by Israeli attacks, have now returned to the agency's headquarters in Vienna. The conflict began when Israel attacked Iranian military and nuclear sites on June 13, resulting in the deaths of several commanders and top scientists, which prompted retaliatory strikes from Iran.

The United States later joined the conflict, conducting bombings on three nuclear facilities in Iran. A US-sponsored cease-fire was implemented on June 24 to halt the escalating tensions. However, Iranian officials have expressed criticism towards the IAEA for not condemning the attacks by Israel and the US. They also criticized the agency for passing a resolution on June 12, which accused Tehran of not complying with its nuclear obligations.

Further complicating matters, Iran has accused Rafael Grossi of acting as a spy for Israel, declaring that he would no longer be permitted to enter the country. In response to these developments, the Iranian parliament approved a bill on June 25 to suspend cooperation with the IAEA. The Guardian Council ratified this legislation the following day, and it officially came into effect on July 2 with the signature of President Masoud Pezeshkian.