Iran Halts Nuclear Inspections, Leaving IAEA 'Completely Blind'

The world's nuclear watchdog is struggling to keep track of Iran's nuclear program as Tehran refuses to cooperate with international inspections. According to IAEA chief Rafael Grossi, his agency has been 'completely blind' to Iran's nuclear activities for over a year.

The standoff began in mid-2025 when Iran's parliament approved a law suspending cooperation with the IAEA. The measure was ratified in July 2025, making it a binding legal framework that can only be unwound by domestic legislation.

Since June 2025, IAEA inspectors have been denied access to key enrichment sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Iranian officials have stated that cooperation will resume once specific protocols are established for sites damaged in military strikes and when political negotiations yield concrete results.