UN nuclear watchdog urges Iran to restore inspection access

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency has urged Iran to allow inspectors back into key nuclear sites that have remained inaccessible for several months. The facilities were closed to IAEA monitors following a 12-day conflict in June 2025 that involved strikes on nuclear installations in the country.

The denial of access represents a significant obstacle to the UN agency's mandate to verify Iran's compliance with nuclear safeguards agreements. IAEA inspectors typically conduct regular visits to Iranian nuclear sites to ensure activities remain within permitted parameters under international agreements.

The watchdog's appeal underscores mounting concerns about transparency in Iran's nuclear programme at a time of heightened regional tensions. Restoration of inspector access is considered crucial for maintaining the credibility of international nuclear monitoring efforts in the Middle East.

The situation reflects the broader complications arising from the June conflict, which has affected diplomatic and monitoring arrangements across the region. International observers have noted that extended periods without verification access can complicate future assessments of nuclear activities.