TEHRAN – Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has extended his congratulations to Iran's newly elected President, Masoud Pezeshkian, and expressed his eagerness to cooperate with the new government.

In a congratulatory message, Grossi stated, "I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on your election win as President of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

He further emphasized the importance of the IAEA's relationship with Iran, noting, "Cooperation between The International Atomic Energy Agency and the Islamic Republic of Iran has been at the focal attention of the international circles for many years. I am confident that together we will be able to make decisive progress on this crucial matter."

Grossi expressed his willingness to visit Iran and meet with the new President at the earliest convenience. "To that effect, I wish to express my readiness to travel to Iran to meet with you at the earliest convenience," he said.

He concluded his message with, "Once again, receive my best wishes of success as President of Iran and I look forward to seeing you at the earliest convenience."

Since taking on the role of the UN nuclear watchdog in 2019, Grossi has made multiple trips to Iran, engaging with senior Iranian officials. His visits typically conclude on a positive note, but he tends to adopt a different tone and rhetoric upon returning to the West. Grossi has frequently faced criticism for making political statements rather than maintaining his position as an independent official. It is not clear whether his recent letter to Pezeshkian signals a shift in his approach.

Pezeshkian was elected Iran’s president after winning 16 million votes during the second round of the snap presidential elections held on July 5. He is seen as a figure close to reformist factions as well as the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.