IAEA says Iran suspension blocks nuclear site access since 2025

The International Atomic Energy Agency said this week that Iran’s suspension of cooperation has prevented inspectors from fully monitoring the country’s nuclear program since 2025. The agency stated that Iran’s obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty remain in force.

It added that the lack of access to verify stockpiles of highly enriched and low-enriched uranium for nearly a year raises proliferation concerns.

Background on the suspension Iran enacted a law suspending cooperation with the IAEA after U.S. and Israeli strikes on several nuclear facilities in June 2025. The agency said it has since lost visibility into key parts of Iran’s nuclear activities.

Iran responded in February 2026 that normal safeguards inspections are untenable under current circumstances. It cited facilities at Isfahan that had been subjected to what it described as illegal military attacks. The agency has repeatedly sought access to affected sites, including the Isfahan Fuel Enrichment Plant, and said it remains prepared to conduct inspections at the facility or an alternate location.

Ongoing investigation and board action The IAEA continues an unresolved investigation into Iran’s past nuclear activities that began in 2018. Iran has not provided what the agency considers credible explanations for uranium particles found at undeclared sites.

The IAEA board of governors passed a resolution in June 2025 finding Iran in noncompliance with its safeguards obligations. The board plans to meet again next week.