Archive · 21 Jan 2026
IAEA Chief Warns Iran on Nuclear Inspections
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, is worried about Iran's nuclear program.
Iran has not let inspectors check some important nuclear sites that were bombed a few months ago.
They also haven't reported on a large amount of highly enriched uranium.
Grossi says this situation can't continue forever.
He wants Iran to cooperate and follow the rules of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
If Iran doesn't, Grossi might have to say they're not following the rules.
He hopes to meet with Iran's foreign minister soon to talk about this.
Iran has not allowed inspections of three key nuclear sites bombed in June: Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.
Iran has not submitted a report on 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to up to 60% purity, enough for 10 nuclear bombs if enriched further.
The IAEA last verified Iran's stock of highly enriched uranium at least seven months ago, despite their guidance to do so monthly.
IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi warns that the standoff cannot continue indefinitely and Iran must engage to avoid being declared non-compliant.
Grossi hopes to resolve the issue by this spring and will meet with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in the coming days or weeks.
- Who
- IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi and Iran
- What
- Standoff over nuclear inspections and accounting for enriched uranium
- When
- Ongoing, with a potential resolution timeline of this spring
- Where
- Iran, with discussions at the World Economic Forum in Davos
- Why
- To ensure compliance with the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and prevent diversion of nuclear material
- Material in Question
- 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to up to 60% purity
- Potential Bombs
- 10 nuclear bombs, if enriched further
- Last Verification
- At least seven months ago
- Bombed Sites
- Natanz, Fordow, Isfahan
- IAEA's Stance
- Iran must engage and comply with obligations
- Upcoming Meeting
- Grossi to meet Iranian Foreign Minister in days or weeks