Iran Bars IAEA from Nuclear Facilities, Citing “Permanent” Ban on Inspections
Iran has barred IAEA inspectors from accessing its nuclear facilities, limiting an upcoming delegation to technical discussions, as confirmed by a senior official. The decision, rooted in recent legislation and heightened by U.S. and Israeli strikes, escalates concerns about Iran’s nuclear intentions.
Ebrahim Azizi, Chairman of Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, reaffirmed Iran’s firm stance against allowing International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors access to its nuclear facilities. Speaking to Tasnim news agency, Azizi dismissed speculation about resuming inspections, stating that an upcoming IAEA delegation visit next week will be restricted to technical and professional discussions with Iranian experts and officials. “International bodies, including the International Atomic Energy Agency, will not be granted access to the country’s nuclear facilities under any circumstances,” he declared, emphasizing that legislation passed by the Islamic Shura Council imposes a “permanent and unchangeable” ban on foreign inspections. Azizi clarified, “The visit will not involve any discussions about granting access to nuclear facilities or allowing inspections, as the Iranian government’s agenda and the IAEA plans do not include such measures.”
This decision follows Iran’s suspension of IAEA cooperation in June 2025, after U.S. and Israeli strikes on nuclear sites in Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan, which damaged enrichment facilities and prompted Iran to prioritize facility security. The IAEA, led by Director General Rafael Grossi, has repeatedly urged access to verify Iran’s 400 kg stockpile of 60% enriched uranium, enough for nine nuclear weapons if further enriched, per the Institute for Science and International Security.
Grossi stated, “It is essential that the Agency resumes inspections as soon as possible to provide credible assurances that none of it has been diverted.” Iran’s refusal, coupled with its threat to withdraw from the Non-Proliferation Treaty, has heightened tensions, with the U.S. warning of “snapback” sanctions. Social media on X reflects skepticism, with one user noting, “Iran’s hiding something, why else block IAEA?” The move complicates diplomatic efforts, as Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the strikes a violation of sovereignty, further stalling talks mediated by Oman.