Iran uranium activity shows renewed movements around nuclear sites, according to Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency. He told the UN that inspectors cannot fully verify Tehran’s nuclear material. Grossi stressed that while uranium enrichment appears inactive, ongoing activity near nuclear facilities requires careful monitoring.
Grossi stated that satellite imagery indicates no uranium enrichment beyond pre-war levels. However, inspectors have noted movement at key locations storing enriched uranium. He highlighted that 60% enriched uranium remains in Iran, a factor that requires strict oversight to prevent misuse. The IAEA chief emphasized that this material could theoretically produce up to ten nuclear weapons if further enriched, though Iran does not currently possess nuclear arms.
The situation follows a 12-day conflict in June between Israel and Iran, later involving US forces. Airstrikes targeted major nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. While US intelligence indicated severe damage, it did not completely destroy Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. CIA Director John Ratcliffe noted that Iran’s uranium metal conversion facility was destroyed, delaying nuclear development by several years. Nonetheless, large portions of enriched uranium likely remain in the affected sites.
IAEA relations with Tehran have worsened since the conflict. The agency’s board of governors voted to censure Iran for noncooperation, the first such measure in two decades. In response, Iranian authorities accused the IAEA of colluding with Israel and the US. Following this vote, Iranian media and officials even called for Grossi’s arrest if he returned to the country. Austrian authorities provided him with police protection.
Despite the strained relations, Grossi said inspectors remain in Iran, and he maintains regular contact with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Grossi warned that cooperation is limited and not at the expected level. He explained that the IAEA must rely on satellite imagery, which cannot provide full verification of nuclear materials.
The recent Cairo agreement between Iran and the IAEA aimed to restore inspections. However, renewed UN sanctions and stalled negotiations have hindered its implementation. International observers remain concerned that Iran could conceal parts of its nuclear program in underground sites, complicating global nonproliferation efforts.
Grossi concluded that monitoring Iran uranium activity is crucial for international security. The IAEA will continue its oversight, despite political and operational challenges, to ensure transparency and compliance.