The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned that its inability to access key Iranian nuclear facilities is creating a serious proliferation concern, as the United States, Britain, France and Germany push for Iran’s nuclear case to be reported to the United Nations Security Council.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi urged Tehran to restore effective cooperation with the agency and allow inspectors to verify Iran’s nuclear material and activities. The watchdog has been unable to fully assess Iran’s nuclear programme since access to several facilities was disrupted following attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. Al Jazeera+1
Western powers are seeking backing from the IAEA’s 35-member Board of Governors for a resolution that would transmit the issue to the Security Council. If approved, the move would mark the first such referral of Iran’s nuclear case in two decades.
The proposed resolution calls on Iran to provide information and access required under its safeguards obligations. Diplomats say negotiations over the wording are continuing ahead of a possible vote.
Iran has strongly rejected the Western initiative. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei accused Western governments of turning to the IAEA after failing to achieve their objectives through other means. Tehran has also warned that it would take “necessary measures” if the resolution is pursued. Al Jazeera
The dispute centres partly on Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium. The IAEA previously estimated that Iran had 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, raising international concerns because the material can be further enriched toward weapons-grade levels. Iran insists that its nuclear programme is peaceful. Reuters+1
The potential referral could significantly increase diplomatic pressure on Tehran. However, any attempt by the Security Council to impose concrete measures could face resistance from Russia and China, both permanent members with veto powers and close relations with Iran. Al Jazeera
The latest standoff comes amid broader regional tensions, making the restoration of international monitoring of Iran’s nuclear activities an increasingly urgent issue for Western governments and the IAEA. Sources