IAEA Chief Advocates for Nuclear Power at COP28 Amid Proliferation Concerns

Grossi highlights the challenges of monitoring nuclear programs, particularly in Iran, and warns of a 'domino effect' of more countries acquiring nuclear weapons.

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has advocated for nuclear power at the COP28 climate talks, stating that the world wants more nuclear energy to combat climate change and meet the growing demand for electricity.
Grossi highlighted the challenges of monitoring nuclear programs in countries, particularly Iran, after the collapse of its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. He expressed concern about the potential 'domino effect' of more countries acquiring nuclear weapons.
French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to make a nuclear announcement that includes a public commitment in favor of nuclear energy. This commitment, backed by world powers, could make nuclear energy more accessible to more nations.
In Iran, the IAEA's access to the country's nuclear program has been restricted since the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal. Iran has also begun revoking permission from veteran IAEA inspectors, further impeding the agency's ability to monitor Iran's program.
Grossi also called out the increasing nuclear weapons programs of China, Russia, and the United States as a 'very disturbing trend' that raises the risk of further proliferation around the world.