Iran’s nuclear sites remain off-limits; UN watchdog warns of growing risks amid war

Tehran: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has urged Iran to cooperate with international inspectors after reporting that it has been unable to verify the status of the country's nuclear material and facilities for nearly a year.

In a confidential report circulated to member states, the agency said the lack of access to Iran's nuclear sites following military strikes in June 2025 has created an unprecedented situation. The watchdog warned that its inability to conduct verification activities without delay raises concerns about nuclear safeguards and potential proliferation risks.

IAEA seeks immediate information from Iran

According to the report, the IAEA has requested that Iran immediately provide updated information on the status of its enriched uranium stockpiles and nuclear facilities. The agency stated that, apart from the Bushehr nuclear facility, inspectors have not been granted access to declared nuclear sites to carry out verification activities.

The report stressed that implementation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty safeguards agreement remains essential and cannot be suspended under any circumstances.

Concerns over enriched uranium stocks

The agency noted that its estimates of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile remain unchanged from previous assessments because inspectors have been unable to verify the material physically since before the June 2025 attacks.

The IAEA said the loss of continuity of knowledge regarding previously declared nuclear material remains a major concern and requires urgent attention. Without access, the agency cannot independently confirm the location, quantity or condition of nuclear material held by Iran.

Unresolved safeguards issues remain

The watchdog also reiterated concerns about possible undeclared nuclear material and activities, citing what it described as Iran's continued failure to resolve outstanding safeguards questions.

The report stated that the agency currently cannot verify the status of affected facilities or associated nuclear material for safeguards purposes, limiting its ability to provide assurances regarding the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme.

Growing international concern

The latest report comes amid continuing international scrutiny of Iran's nuclear activities and follows military strikes that targeted several nuclear-related facilities in June 2025.

The IAEA has called on Iran to engage constructively with inspectors and restore access as soon as possible, warning that prolonged restrictions on verification activities could further increase global concerns about nuclear transparency and non-proliferation.