Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani held a telephone conversation with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to discuss pressing nuclear security issues, particularly concerning Iran and Ukraine. The discussion reaffirmed Italy’s strong support for the IAEA’s role in maintaining global nuclear security, according to a statement from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The conversation, which took place on September 5, 2025, focused on the demand for increased cooperation with the IAEA, especially regarding access to nuclear sites in Iran. Tajani emphasized the importance of Teheran resuming full cooperation with the agency, a critical step in ensuring transparency and accountability regarding its nuclear program. Italy also signaled its willingness to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the IAEA, positioning itself as a key diplomatic player in the region. The situation remains tense, with Iran facing scrutiny over potential violations of nuclear agreements.
The discussion also addressed the precarious nuclear safety situation in Ukraine, specifically concerning the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Tajani reiterated the necessity of involving Kyiv in discussions regarding nuclear safety and security within the country. He suggested that the Zaporizhzhia plant could serve as a model for negotiations aimed at achieving peace, highlighting the IAEA’s ongoing engagement in mitigating risks at the facility.
Italy’s Role as a Diplomatic Facilitator
Italy has consistently sought to play a constructive role in international efforts to address nuclear proliferation and ensure the safe and secure use of nuclear technology. The Foreign Minister’s exchange with Director General Grossi reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to this role, particularly in the context of the Iranian nuclear file. According to Decode39, Italy is actively positioning itself as a diplomatic bridge between the IAEA and Iran.
Concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear program have been heightened by reports of uranium enrichment levels. A confidential IAEA report from June 13, 2025, indicated that Iran possessed 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%—a level approaching the 90% required for weapons-grade material. This development, coupled with recent strikes on sensitive Iranian facilities, led to a suspension of cooperation with the IAEA, limiting inspector access to sites like the Bushehr plant.
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Remains a High-Risk Site
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, located on the front lines of the conflict in Ukraine, continues to pose a significant risk. Director General Grossi has warned that “the possibility of something happening is extremely high,” emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to avert a nuclear catastrophe. Italy’s suggestion that the plant could serve as a model for negotiations underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by the conflict.
On April 19, 2025, IAEA’s Grossi met with Italy’s Tajani in Rome, as US-Iran talks convened, according to Iran International. This meeting further highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the nuclear issues in both Iran and Ukraine.
Foreign Minister Tajani stated on X (formerly Twitter) on September 5, 2025, “Italy once again reaffirms its full support for the role of the IAEA in guaranteeing global nuclear security.” Iran Press reported on this statement, emphasizing Italy’s commitment to international nuclear security efforts.
On March 5, 2026, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated that the IAEA also indicated that Tehran was building an atomic bomb, according to La Presse.
As of March 8, 2026, the situation remains fluid, and continued diplomatic engagement will be crucial in mitigating the risks associated with both the Iranian nuclear program and the conflict in Ukraine. The IAEA’s role, supported by countries like Italy, will be essential in ensuring global nuclear security and preventing a potential catastrophe.
Share your thoughts on Italy’s diplomatic efforts and the ongoing nuclear concerns in the comments below. Please also share this article with your network to raise awareness of these critical issues.
