Daijiworld Media Network - Cairo

Cairo, Aug 14: Egypt is stepping up diplomatic efforts to bridge the divide between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), aiming to restart stalled negotiations on Tehran’s nuclear program, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.

Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held separate phone conversations with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to facilitate dialogue and rebuild trust.

In his discussion with Araghchi, Abdelatty stressed the importance of returning to diplomatic engagement with the UN nuclear watchdog. He underscored that restoring communication could foster mutual trust and help stabilise the region.

During his call with Grossi, Abdelatty reviewed the status of nuclear negotiations and discussed measures to rebuild confidence between Tehran and the agency. Grossi also briefed him on the recent visit to Iran by IAEA Deputy Director General Massimo Aparo and ongoing efforts to promote peaceful nuclear cooperation in the region.

Aparo’s trip to Iran earlier this week included meetings with officials from the Foreign Ministry and nuclear authorities. Talks reportedly focused on crafting a new framework for future cooperation following Tehran’s decision in June to suspend collaboration with the agency.

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, speaking to state media, said the Iranian side raised concerns about what it described as the IAEA’s failure to address “acts of aggression” — referencing alleged Israeli and U.S. operations targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and scientists. Iran has demanded guarantees for the safety of its nuclear sites and personnel before resuming cooperation.

Despite tensions, both sides have agreed to continue consultations, keeping the door open for a potential diplomatic breakthrough.