IAEA Chief Warns Iran Cooperation Incomplete As EU, US Prepare Sanctions

The head of the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, Rafael Grossi, has warned that Iran's cooperation with international inspectors remains insufficient despite inspectors returning to the country for the first time since the June Iran-Israel conflict. Currently, inspectors have access only to the Bushehr nuclear power plant, with broader access to other critical sites still pending, and Iran has indicated that its future cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will take a "new form." European leaders from Germany, France, and the United Kingdom have been engaged in negotiations with Tehran but are prepared to reimpose UN sanctions by invoking the "snapback mechanism" of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal due to Iran's noncompliance. Grossi has emphasized the importance of the inspectors' presence but noted that many issues and clarifications remain before full verification can be achieved. The situation follows Israeli and US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, after which Iran suspended cooperation with the IAEA but has now allowed limited inspections under strict conditions. Discussions between Grossi and key US and European officials continue as the international community seeks to address concerns over Iran's nuclear program and prevent further escalation.