IAEA chief calls for urgent return of inspectors to Iran

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, called on Friday for a swift return of nuclear inspectors to Iran. UN News reported that Grossi warned of growing fragility in the global nuclear non-proliferation regime during an address to the United Nations General Assembly. [1]

According to UN News, Grossi stated that the technical groundwork has been completed and the bases on which a diplomatic agreement could be concluded exist. He urged the involved parties to redouble their efforts, noting that the return of inspectors requires a return to the negotiating table. [1]

UN News reported that Iran sharply restricted inspector access following June 2025 strikes on its nuclear sites during a 12-day war with Israel. The agency estimated in March that Iran possessed just over 200 kilogrammes of uranium enriched to 60 per cent purity. [1]

The warning comes as United States and Israeli forces remain engaged in ongoing conflict with Iran and its regional allies. Hindustan Times reported separately that Donald Trump warned of a potential escalation in the West Asia war, while Iran has threatened wider retaliation. [2][10]