IAEA demands immediate access to Iran's nuclear sites amid ongoing concerns

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is pressing Iran for immediate access to its nuclear facilities, as Director General Rafael Grossi stated that inspectors have only been granted access to a single site in recent months. Grossi emphasized the critical need for "prompt inspections in Iran," acknowledging the "unprecedented situation" created by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear targets.

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it is crucial to carry out inspections in Iran without delay

Iran's cooperation with IAEA inspectors largely halted after the U.S. and Israel initiated attacks on Iranian nuclear sites on February 28. While Iran permitted an inspection of its Bushehr nuclear power plant this week, shortly before a report's release and an upcoming IAEA Board of Governors meeting, the agency seeks continued access. Iran possesses 22 nuclear facilities, many of which have become targets during the conflict.

According to IAEA data, prior to the June 2025 attacks by Israel and the U.S. on three key Iranian nuclear facilities, Iran held approximately 440 kg of uranium enriched to 60 percent. Experts suggest this quantity could be sufficient for several nuclear weapons if further enriched. Tehran consistently denies pursuing nuclear weapons.

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created an unprecedented situation

Grossi highlighted the urgency of resolving the issue of the IAEA lacking continuous information on all previously declared nuclear material at affected Iranian sites. The situation is further complicated by stalled U.S.-Iran negotiations regarding a framework agreement to end the current war, with control of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program being major sticking points.

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It is necessary to resolve as soon as possible the issue related to the fact that (the IAEA) no longer has continuous information about all previously declared nuclear material in the affected Iranian facilities.