IAEA requests access to Iran's nuclear sites due to proliferation concerns

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has called for urgent action to address the lack of access to Iran's nuclear sites. In a quarterly report released on September 1, 2026, the UN nuclear watchdog stated that the absence of information regarding Iran's nuclear material and the inability to verify it raises proliferation concerns. The report highlighted specific worries about access to the Isfahan plant, which has been targeted by US and Israeli military actions over the past year. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the need for a long-lasting, verifiable diplomatic agreement to resolve ongoing issues. Iran's Atomic Energy Organization head, Mohammad Eslami, stated that inspections of sites affected by military attacks must follow specific criteria and protocols. Following attacks in June 2025, Iran suspended cooperation with the IAEA but announced in September 2025 that it would permit inspectors to return. However, access to the bombed nuclear sites has not yet been granted. Despite claims from US President Donald Trump that US actions had destroyed Iran's nuclear facilities, the IAEA noted that Iran's enriched uranium reserves remain unaccounted for. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for civilian purposes and denies any military ambitions. The IAEA's latest report will be discussed at its board of governors meeting from September 21-25.