The United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has stated it remains unable to verify that Iran has not diverted nuclear material, a critical concern that has persisted for over five years. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi informed the UN Security Council on Tuesday that inspectors have been unable to access key Iranian nuclear sites since military attacks in June 2025 and early 2026 led to their withdrawal for safety reasons. [3, 6, 7] While the IAEA has observed no signs of attempts to repair or rebuild the damaged facilities, satellite monitoring cannot replace on-the-ground verification. [3, 5, 7] A significant point of contention is the approximately 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium that remains unaccounted for, with the IAEA unable to confirm its status. [3, 5, 9, 11, 12] Grossi emphasized that Iran has not provided the necessary information and access to verify safeguarded material at its facilities, despite repeated requests and Iran's legal obligations. [8, 9] The IAEA's Board of Governors had previously reported Tehran to the Security Council for non-compliance with its safeguards obligations, a move that had not occurred in two decades. [3, 4, 11] Despite these challenges, the IAEA remains ready to resume its verification activities, with inspectors available for many months. [2, 9] The agency continues to engage with Iran, seeking avenues to clarify outstanding safeguards issues and stressing that diplomatic agreements are essential for a lasting solution. [2, 10] Regional mediators, including Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, and Egypt, have been involved in efforts to re-engage Tehran. [3, 10] The only exception to the access restrictions is the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, where inspectors continue their verification work. [6, 7, 9, 12]