IAEA Head Cites Iran Nuclear Program Gaps, UN Referral

VIENNA - International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi expressed serious concern on Monday, September 7, 2026, regarding Iran's nuclear program, citing a lack of information and the agency's inability to conduct verification activities at key facilities. The remarks came as Western nations prepared to submit a draft resolution seeking to refer Iran to the United Nations Security Council for failing to comply with its nuclear reporting obligations. Grossi stated that the absence of engagement from Iran is a significant issue, emphasizing that the country has not provided information on the status of its declared nuclear material or facilities, nor has the IAEA been granted access to conduct inspections. This situation has prevented the agency from fulfilling its safeguards responsibilities under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Safeguards Agreement. The IAEA has been unable to verify the status of declared nuclear facilities and associated materials since at least June 2025, following military attacks on nuclear sites that year.