The U.N.’s atomic watchdog issued a sharp demand on Thursday calling on Iran to fully cooperate and provide accurate details about its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, while also restoring access for inspectors to nuclear facilities. The vote by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s 35-member board saw 19 countries back a resolution from the U.S., U.K., France, and Germany, urging Iran to disclose updated information “without delay.” Russia, China, and Niger opposed the measure, while a dozen countries abstained.
Tensions between Tehran and the IAEA have worsened since Israel and the United States struck Iranian nuclear sites during the 12-day conflict in June. Since then, Iran has barred inspectors from entering damaged facilities, despite being legally required to cooperate under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.
The IAEA has been unable to confirm the status of Iran’s near weapons-grade uranium for months. A recent confidential report indicates Iran possesses 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% — just one step below weapons-grade. Director General Rafael Grossi warned that such material could provide enough fissile matter for up to 10 nuclear weapons, though he emphasized there is no evidence Iran has built or is building an actual bomb.
Under IAEA protocol, material enriched to this level should be verified monthly, but inspectors have not been granted access since June.
