Iran halts nuclear deal oversight, IAEA reports 3.5 years ago

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that Iran ceased compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal three and a half years ago, specifically in March 2021. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi highlighted that Iran has restricted access to its nuclear facilities, preventing the agency from conducting necessary inspections. This lack of oversight has resulted in a significant loss of knowledge regarding Iran's nuclear materials and capabilities, including centrifuges and uranium stockpiles. Grossi expressed concerns over Iran's increasing stockpile of uranium enriched to levels suitable for weapons development, with reports indicating that Iran possesses 164.7 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent. This amount is substantially higher than what is permitted under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which aimed to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. The IAEA has warned that Iran could potentially develop multiple nuclear weapons with its current stockpiles. The situation has been exacerbated by the political landscape in Iran, with hardliner President Ebrahim Raisi taking office and the previous administration's more moderate approach being replaced. Despite the Iranian government's claims of cooperation with the IAEA, Grossi's assessments reveal a stark contrast, indicating a serious impasse in negotiations and compliance. As diplomatic relations between Iran and the West remain strained, the IAEA's inability to monitor Iran's nuclear activities raises significant concerns about regional and global security. The agency's calls for renewed negotiations have yet to yield any substantial progress, leaving the future of the nuclear deal uncertain.