Nuclear Chief Who Criticized Iran to Campaign for Secretary-General

Rafael Grossi to Run for UN Secretary-General in 2026

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), announced this week his intention to campaign for the position of UN Secretary-General in 2026.

Antonio Guterres, the current Secretary-General, is expected to wrap up his second term next year, having served since 2017. The UN, with its extensive network of global organizations and a complex appointment process, selects its leaders through the Security Council, which then requires confirmation from the General Assembly. Much of the campaigning occurs behind the scenes, as candidates seek favor with the powerful members of the Security Council.

Since taking the helm of the IAEA in 2019, Grossi has been a prominent figure in international relations. He previously served as Argentina’s ambassador to Austria from 2013 to 2019, and his expertise is rooted in international affairs. Known for his strong stances, Grossi has been vocal about the need for Iran to adhere to the 2015 nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), often criticizing its non-compliance. His recent report on Iran’s uranium enrichment led to the IAEA passing its first resolution in two decades, coinciding with U.S. airstrikes aimed at Iran’s uranium facilities.

During a visit to Washington, Grossi conveyed his interest in the Secretary-General role, stating, “I’ll be a candidate.” He indicated that his campaign has begun to take shape and that further announcements would follow soon. Reportedly, he discussed his candidacy with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, although the specifics of their conversation were not disclosed.

The State Department confirmed that Grossi met with Rubio, focusing on global nuclear safety, including the situation in Ukraine and oversight of Iran’s nuclear activities. Rubio reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting IAEA objectives and promoting peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

As the first Latin American to lead the IAEA, Grossi might face challenges, especially from groups advocating for the UN to appoint a woman as the next Secretary-General after Guterres. Though no official candidates have yet emerged, speculation includes several prominent women, such as Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Michelle Bachelet, former Chilean president.

Grossi’s candidacy comes during a volatile period for the IAEA, particularly with ongoing tensions regarding Iran. His recent reports have highlighted significant concerns about Iran’s nuclear program, asserting that the country has repeatedly failed to meet international obligations.

“Unfortunately, Iran has not provided valid responses to the agency’s inquiries,” Grossi commented. He further noted that the IAEA could not verify whether certain nuclear materials remained under protective measures due to Iran’s lack of transparency.

His findings prompted the IAEA to accuse Iran of violating the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Shortly after, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. had taken decisive action against Iranian enrichment sites.