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UNITED NATIONS (AP) — The head of the U.N. nuclear agency indicated that a significant amount of Iran’s highly enriched uranium is likely still located
at the Isfahan nuclear complex. This facility has experienced airstrikes in the past year amidst ongoing conflicts involving the U.S. and Israel. In an interview with The Associated Press, Rafael Grossi stated that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has satellite imagery revealing the impact of recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, asserting, “we continue to get information.”
IAEA Inspections and Concerns
IAEA inspections ceased at Isfahan following a 12-day war initiated by Israel in June 2025, which involved U.S. bombings of three Iranian nuclear sites. Grossi noted that a large percentage of Iran's highly enriched uranium was likely stored at Isfahan during the outbreak of hostilities.“We haven't been able to inspect or to reject that the material is there and that the seals — the IAEA seals — remain there,” Grossi remarked, expressing hope for future inspections. He emphasized that this assessment represents the best estimate based on available data.
Recent Satellite Imagery
Recent satellite images captured by Airbus reveal a truck transporting 18 blue containers into a tunnel at the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center shortly before the June conflict. These containers are believed to hold highly enriched uranium, which likely remains stored there.Need for Comprehensive Inspections
The IAEA is also seeking access to inspect Iran's nuclear facilities at Natanz and Fordo, where additional nuclear material is present. Grossi reiterated that Iran, as a signatory of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, is obligated to allow IAEA inspections of its nuclear sites.According to IAEA reports, Iran possesses 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a short step from weapons-grade levels. Grossi estimated that around 200 kilograms (approximately 440 pounds) of this material is likely stored in tunnels at the Isfahan facility.
Potential Nuclear Capabilities
Grossi has indicated that Iran's stockpile could enable the country to produce up to ten nuclear weapons if it chose to pursue weaponization. Tehran has consistently maintained that its nuclear ambitions are peaceful in nature.Former President Donald Trump asserted that one of the key motivations for U.S. military actions was to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, despite claims that previous strikes had severely damaged Iran's nuclear capabilities.
IAEA Discussions on Uranium Transfer
Grossi mentioned that the IAEA has engaged in discussions with Russia and other nations regarding the potential transfer of Iran's highly enriched uranium out of the country. This operation would necessitate either a political agreement or significant military action by the U.S. in a hostile environment.“What's going to be important is that that material leaves Iran” or is blended to lower its enrichment levels, Grossi stated. The IAEA participated in the last round of U.S.-Iran nuclear discussions in February but has not been involved in recent ceasefire negotiations mediated by Pakistan.
Political Will Required for Agreement
Grossi underscored that achieving a deal will require substantial political will from Tehran. He highlighted that both Iranian leaders and the U.S. administration have expressed a willingness to negotiate, yet frustrations arise from disagreements over priorities and negotiation strategies.“What is indispensable is that we address it,” Grossi remarked concerning Iran’s nuclear program. He noted that while there appears to be mutual interest in reaching an agreement, significant hurdles remain.
