IAEA monitoring and inspection tensions in Iran

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported observing construction and movement at the Kuh Kalang site near Iran’s Natanz nuclear facilities. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi noted that inspectors have not been granted access to the interior of the tunnel complex and lack information regarding the nature of these activities.

This follows a decision by the IAEA Board of Governors to refer Iran’s nuclear case to the United Nations Security Council due to alleged non-compliance. In response, Iran issued a diplomatic note warning Western nations against using the IAEA as a “tool for war,” citing past aggression following IAEA declarations of non-compliance.

In a subsequent development, Grossi stated that the IAEA is prepared to immediately deploy inspectors to Iran to resume operations if a formal request is made. He emphasized the agency’s readiness, stating, “Our teams are ready. We know exactly where to go and what to do.” Full-scale inspection activities were previously interrupted following strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Tehran’s decision to suspend cooperation, leading to restricted access under safeguards.