Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - Global concerns over Iran’s nuclear program have intensified after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warned that the risk of nuclear proliferation has increased due to the agency’s inability to effectively monitor Iran’s nuclear activities. The warning comes as ongoing regional tensions and previous military strikes have severely limited international inspections, leaving critical questions unanswered about Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.

According to the IAEA’s latest assessment, inspectors have been unable to access several major Iranian nuclear facilities, preventing the agency from verifying the current quantity, composition, or whereabouts of enriched uranium held by Tehran. The watchdog noted that Iran has not provided updated information regarding uranium enriched up to 60% purity material considered dangerously close to weapons-grade levels. The agency warned that the longer this lack of transparency continues, the greater the risk to global non-proliferation efforts.

The concern is heightened by estimates that Iran previously possessed more than 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, theoretically enough material for multiple nuclear weapons if further enriched. While Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful, the IAEA says the loss of monitoring continuity has created a serious verification gap. Director General Rafael Grossi has repeatedly emphasized that diplomacy and inspections remain essential, warning that reduced oversight makes the situation more unpredictable and potentially more dangerous than before.

As world powers prepare for upcoming discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities, the IAEA’s warning underscores a growing challenge, ensuring transparency in a region already marked by conflict and geopolitical tension. With inspectors still unable to fully verify Iran’s nuclear inventory, international pressure for renewed diplomatic engagement is expected to intensify in the coming weeks.