The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief has thrown his weight behind a potential meeting between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying, “It’s very important that they meet.”&nbsp;The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Mariano Grossi, one of the world’s most respected arms control experts, endorsed the proposed meeting after Trump remarked last week that he plans to meet the North Korean leader later this year despite opposition and criticism from detractors who emphasise that Kim should not be granted the privilege of a leader-level meeting.&nbsp;<h2>‘Leaders need to see each other,’ says Grossi</h2>&nbsp;“Leaders need to see each other,” Rafael Mariano Grossi, director general of the IAEA, told The Washington Post in an interview.&nbsp;“The fact that I get along with him—that's a good thing, not a bad thing,” Trump told reporters last week. “He has 57 very powerful nuclear weapons.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-union-minister-mukul-roy-s-daughter-in-law-missing-in-nepal-drdo-ex-chief-and-wife-stranded-1787847711884">Ex-Union Minister Mukul Roy’s daughter-in-law missing in Nepal; DRDO ex-chief and wife stranded</a>&nbsp;Grossi, one of the world’s most respected arms control experts, backed the case for a dialogue, saying Kim’s reputation as a human rights abuser and autocrat shouldn’t preclude engagement.&nbsp;Grossi cited Trump’s effort to broker agreements between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as an example.&nbsp;<h2>‘Shaking hands is what diplomacy is for’</h2>&nbsp;“People say, ‘How can you be shaking hands with this?’ Shaking hands is what diplomacy is for,” Grossi said. “And then, after the handshake, there is hopefully a conversation, and in that conversation, which should be cordial and respectful, you are trying to get something done.”&nbsp;Grossi is also eyeing becoming the next secretary general of the United Nations in a highly competitive selection process that gives veto power to permanent members of the UN Security Council, including the United States.&nbsp;The second term of the ninth UN Secretary-General António Guterres is coming to an end on 31 December 2026.&nbsp;<h2>Grossi considered to be frontrunner for UN top post</h2>&nbsp;Grossi was nominated by Argentina on 26 November 2025. The 65-year-old career diplomat from Argentina has been a high-profile director general of the UN nuclear watchdog for the last six years.&nbsp;While the IAEA has long policed Iran’s nuclear programme, Grossi led negotiations aimed at salvaging parts of a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers after US President Donald Trump’s decision to pull the United States out of it in 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-law-institute-nlsiu-cancels-convocation-after-row-over-invite-to-cji-surya-kant-1787834694245">Top law institute NLSIU cancels convocation after row over invite to CJI Surya Kant</a>&nbsp;Grossi’s one notable success was getting an IAEA team stationed at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine.&nbsp;Many diplomats consider him to be the frontrunner after his years spent trying to keep onside the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, whose backing is crucial for the top job. However, Russia has expressed reservations about his campaign. Eight candidates have been nominated so far.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grossi made his pitch for the job, saying, “I’m the only one in the race that is dealing with real peace and security issues and has been working with all the major players and other countries on this.”

IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi, one of the world’s most respected arms control experts, backed the case for a dialogue between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying the latter’s reputation as a human rights abuser and autocrat shouldn’t preclude engagement.

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief has thrown his weight behind a potential meeting between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying, “It’s very important that they meet.” The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Mariano Grossi, one of the world’s most respected arms control experts, endorsed the proposed meeting after Trump remarked last week that he plans to meet the North Korean leader later this year despite opposition and criticism from detractors who emphasise that Kim should not be granted the privilege of a leader-level meeting. ‘Leaders need to see each other,’ says Grossi “Leaders need to see each other,” Rafael Mariano Grossi, director general of the IAEA, told The Washington Post in an interview. “The fact that I get along with him—that's a good thing, not a bad thing,” Trump told reporters last week. “He has 57 very powerful nuclear weapons.” Also Read: Ex-Union Minister Mukul Roy’s daughter-in-law missing in Nepal; DRDO ex-chief and wife stranded Grossi, one of the world’s most respected arms control experts, backed the case for a dialogue, saying Kim’s reputation as a human rights abuser and autocrat shouldn’t preclude engagement. Grossi cited Trump’s effort to broker agreements between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as an example. ‘Shaking hands is what diplomacy is for’ “People say, ‘How can you be shaking hands with this?’ Shaking hands is what diplomacy is for,” Grossi said. “And then, after the handshake, there is hopefully a conversation, and in that conversation, which should be cordial and respectful, you are trying to get something done.” Grossi is also eyeing becoming the next secretary general of the United Nations in a highly competitive selection process that gives veto power to permanent members of the UN Security Council, including the United States. The second term of the ninth UN Secretary-General António Guterres is coming to an end on 31 December 2026. Grossi considered to be frontrunner for UN top post Grossi was nominated by Argentina on 26 November 2025. The 65-year-old career diplomat from Argentina has been a high-profile director general of the UN nuclear watchdog for the last six years. While the IAEA has long policed Iran’s nuclear programme, Grossi led negotiations aimed at salvaging parts of a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers after US President Donald Trump’s decision to pull the United States out of it in 2018. Also Read: Top law institute NLSIU cancels convocation after row over invite to CJI Surya Kant Grossi’s one notable success was getting an IAEA team stationed at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine. Many diplomats consider him to be the frontrunner after his years spent trying to keep onside the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, whose backing is crucial for the top job. However, Russia has expressed reservations about his campaign. Eight candidates have been nominated so far. Grossi made his pitch for the job, saying, “I’m the only one in the race that is dealing with real peace and security issues and has been working with all the major players and other countries on this.”

IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi, one of the world’s most respected arms control experts, backed the case for a dialogue between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying the latter’s reputation as a human rights abuser and autocrat shouldn’t preclude engagement.

UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi endorses Trump’s plan to meet Kim Jong Un

A “very strong” verification system is needed in Iran after the war to ensure that the country doesn’t develop nuclear weapons, the UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Friday. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head’s remarks come as the United States and Iran negotiate a broader deal to end the war, with Tehran’s nuclear programme still being a key sticking point.&nbsp;“I think the objective of this (recent US-Iran) agreement is to ensure that there is no development of nuclear weapons in Iran. The government of Iran has declared quite clearly that this is not their intention,” Grossi told reporters in Japan.&nbsp;“But of course intentions are not enough. We have to have a very strong verification system in place ... as soon as is practicable,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-twin-quakes-toll-climbs-to-589-thousands-missing-us-temporarily-removes-sanctions-on-caracas-1782482230379">Venezuela twin quakes toll climbs to 589, thousands missing; US temporarily lifts sanctions on Caracas</a><h2>‘Interim ⁠US-Iran accord gives UN inspectors ⁠access to Iran’: IAEA chief</h2>&nbsp;Grossi said that the interim US-Iran peace accord gives UN nuclear inspectors access to Iran after Tehran indicated that the key sites would remain off-limits until a final deal with Washington was reached and sanctions lifted.&nbsp;He further said that the watchdog had “barely initiated” talks with Tehran following its recent preliminary agreement with the US about what to do with Tehran’s uranium stockpile.&nbsp;“Initial conversations have taken place. ... We expect this work to pick up soon,” Grossi said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-pledges-stronger-backing-for-bangladesh-s-brics-sco-ambitions-as-trade-and-connectivity-top-agenda-1782478384233">China pledges stronger backing for Bangladesh’s BRICS, SCO ambitions as trade and connectivity top agenda</a>&nbsp;Iran has consistently denied seeking to acquire a nuclear bomb while remaining adamant about its right to operate a full-scale civilian nuclear programme.Under a law passed by the Iranian parliament following last year’s 12-day war with Israel, Tehran suspended cooperation with the IAEA last July.&nbsp;Iran’s ⁠deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi said on Wednesday that there were no plans to grant access to inspectors, but the IAEA chief said on Friday that inspections had to happen.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zero-tolerance-for-any-attempt-to-exploit-sanatan-faith-of-devotees-says-cm-yogi-after-arrests-in-ram-temple-donation-theft-case-1782473006937">‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case</a><h2>‘IAEA will have to have access and inspect. We hope to be there soon’</h2>&nbsp;“There is an agreement, and to comply with that agreement, the IAEA will have to have access and inspect,” he said at a press conference in Japan. “We hope to be there soon.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amazon-ceo-meets-pm-modi-says-e-com-giant-to-invest-48bn-in-india-by-2030-expand-ai-cloud-infra-1782387595374">Amazon CEO meets PM Modi, says e-com giant to invest $48bn in India by 2030, expand AI, cloud infra</a>&nbsp;UN inspectors have already held an initial exchange with Iranian ⁠officials to discuss technical issues, Grossi said. The first goal of the visit to Iran would be to check whether IAEA seals on previously inspected material remained intact and whether any material was missing, he said.&nbsp;Iran has not informed the watchdog how much of its enriched ⁠uranium survived US and Israeli attacks or where it is. The IAEA estimates Iran had 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to up ⁠to 60% before the conflict began. If enriched further, that would be enough for 10 nuclear weapons, according to the IAEA yardstick.

Iran has consistently denied seeking to acquire a nuclear bomb while remaining adamant about its right to operate a full-scale civilian nuclear programme. Under a law passed by the Iranian parliament after last year’s 12-day war, Tehran suspended cooperation with the IAEA last July.

A “very strong” verification system is needed in Iran after the war to ensure that the country doesn’t develop nuclear weapons, the UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Friday. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head’s remarks come as the United States and Iran negotiate a broader deal to end the war, with Tehran’s nuclear programme still being a key sticking point. “I think the objective of this (recent US-Iran) agreement is to ensure that there is no development of nuclear weapons in Iran. The government of Iran has declared quite clearly that this is not their intention,” Grossi told reporters in Japan. “But of course intentions are not enough. We have to have a very strong verification system in place ... as soon as is practicable,” he said. Also Read: Venezuela twin quakes toll climbs to 589, thousands missing; US temporarily lifts sanctions on Caracas ‘Interim ⁠US-Iran accord gives UN inspectors ⁠access to Iran’: IAEA chief Grossi said that the interim US-Iran peace accord gives UN nuclear inspectors access to Iran after Tehran indicated that the key sites would remain off-limits until a final deal with Washington was reached and sanctions lifted. He further said that the watchdog had “barely initiated” talks with Tehran following its recent preliminary agreement with the US about what to do with Tehran’s uranium stockpile. “Initial conversations have taken place. ... We expect this work to pick up soon,” Grossi said. Also Read: China pledges stronger backing for Bangladesh’s BRICS, SCO ambitions as trade and connectivity top agenda Iran has consistently denied seeking to acquire a nuclear bomb while remaining adamant about its right to operate a full-scale civilian nuclear programme. Under a law passed by the Iranian parliament following last year’s 12-day war with Israel, Tehran suspended cooperation with the IAEA last July. Iran’s ⁠deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi said on Wednesday that there were no plans to grant access to inspectors, but the IAEA chief said on Friday that inspections had to happen. Also Read: ‘Zero tolerance for any attempt to exploit Sanatan, faith of devotees,’ says CM Yogi after arrests in Ram temple donation theft case ‘IAEA will have to have access and inspect. We hope to be there soon’ “There is an agreement, and to comply with that agreement, the IAEA will have to have access and inspect,” he said at a press conference in Japan. “We hope to be there soon.” Also Read: Amazon CEO meets PM Modi, says e-com giant to invest $48bn in India by 2030, expand AI, cloud infra UN inspectors have already held an initial exchange with Iranian ⁠officials to discuss technical issues, Grossi said. The first goal of the visit to Iran would be to check whether IAEA seals on previously inspected material remained intact and whether any material was missing, he said. Iran has not informed the watchdog how much of its enriched ⁠uranium survived US and Israeli attacks or where it is. The IAEA estimates Iran had 440.9 kg of uranium enriched to up ⁠to 60% before the conflict began. If enriched further, that would be enough for 10 nuclear weapons, according to the IAEA yardstick.

Iran has consistently denied seeking to acquire a nuclear bomb while remaining adamant about its right to operate a full-scale civilian nuclear programme. Under a law passed by the Iranian parliament after last year’s 12-day war, Tehran suspended cooperation with the IAEA last July.

‘Intentions not enough, very strong nuclear verification needed in Iran after war,’ says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi said on Friday that negotiations between the United States and Iran appear close to producing a framework agreement on Tehran’s nuclear programme. Addressing a press conference after a meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors on Friday, Grossi said the agency remains in contact with both sides, although it is not directly involved in the talks.“Our sense is that they seem to be pretty close to agreeing on what I would describe more with regards to the nuclear … to sort of a framework, organisational structure to give themselves time to look into the different problems,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-using-lebanon-as-bargaining-chip-in-negotiations-with-us-says-lebanese-president-joseph-aoun-1780672889045">‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun</a>&nbsp;Grossi further said that the IAEA has made several efforts to restore verification activities in Iran. He also stressed that Tehran’s obligations under its agreements with the agency remain in force.“Iran has a number of obligations in terms of informing us and giving us access for our inspection work,” he said. “It is clear that under war circumstances, this is not possible, but there has been quite a long ceasefire.”&nbsp;He said that the agency had continued some activities at facilities selected by Iran, but there is an “element of discretion” in terms of what Tehran allows the agency to see.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-pause-humans-may-lose-control-on-ai-as-it-starts-building-itself-warns-anthropic-1780660343107">‘Time for pause’: Humans may lose control on AI as it starts building itself, warns Anthropic</a>&nbsp;The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief further said that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains central to any future agreement.The possible options include exporting the nuclear material, diluting it or keeping it in Iran under IAEA monitoring, Grossi said, adding that any decision would ultimately be political.Grossi said the first step should be for the agency to go to Iran to check the amount.&nbsp;<h2>‘Nuclear facilities should never be attacked’</h2>&nbsp;Ahead of the meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors, Grossi warned that nuclear facilities must not be targeted during conflicts.“Regardless of where they are located around the world, nuclear facilities should never be attacked,” he said.Grossi’s remarks came after a visit to the Arab Gulf region, where he met regional leaders and toured the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates, which was struck by a drone on May 17.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hotel-owner-helped-bangladeshi-nationals-get-fake-indian-documents-was-arrested-booked-last-year-1780654502514">Delhi hotel owner helped Bangladeshi nationals get fake Indian documents, was arrested, booked last year</a>&nbsp;“Attacks on nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes are unacceptable. I solemnly reiterate my calls for the parties in this conflict and in all conflicts to respect the seven indispensable pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during a conflict,” Grossi said.&nbsp;He called for maximum restraint and warned that military activities involving nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities carry “unacceptable” risks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senate-passes-70bn-bill-to-fund-immigration-enforcement-without-limits-on-trump-anti-weaponisation-fund-1780666271587">Senate passes $70bn bill to fund immigration enforcement, without limits on Trump ‘anti-weaponisation’ fund</a>&nbsp;Grossi emphasised that the IAEA applies the same standards to all countries and situations.&nbsp;“There are no double or triple standards here for the IAEA. An attack on any facility, wherever it is located, is unacceptable, a no-go, taboo,” he said.He also warned of the potential environmental and public safety consequences of any major release of radioactivity resulting from an attack on an operating nuclear power plant, adding, “The only sustainable path to peace, stability and cooperation is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy. This is what we are here for.”

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief, Rafael Grossi, said Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains central to any future agreement, and the possible options include exporting the nuclear material, diluting it or keeping it in Iran under IAEA monitoring.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi said on Friday that negotiations between the United States and Iran appear close to producing a framework agreement on Tehran’s nuclear programme. Addressing a press conference after a meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors on Friday, Grossi said the agency remains in contact with both sides, although it is not directly involved in the talks. “Our sense is that they seem to be pretty close to agreeing on what I would describe more with regards to the nuclear … to sort of a framework, organisational structure to give themselves time to look into the different problems,” he said. Also Read: ‘Iran using Lebanon as bargaining chip in negotiations with US,’ says Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Grossi further said that the IAEA has made several efforts to restore verification activities in Iran. He also stressed that Tehran’s obligations under its agreements with the agency remain in force. “Iran has a number of obligations in terms of informing us and giving us access for our inspection work,” he said. “It is clear that under war circumstances, this is not possible, but there has been quite a long ceasefire.” He said that the agency had continued some activities at facilities selected by Iran, but there is an “element of discretion” in terms of what Tehran allows the agency to see. Also Read: ‘Time for pause’: Humans may lose control on AI as it starts building itself, warns Anthropic The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief further said that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains central to any future agreement. The possible options include exporting the nuclear material, diluting it or keeping it in Iran under IAEA monitoring, Grossi said, adding that any decision would ultimately be political. Grossi said the first step should be for the agency to go to Iran to check the amount. ‘Nuclear facilities should never be attacked’ Ahead of the meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors, Grossi warned that nuclear facilities must not be targeted during conflicts. “Regardless of where they are located around the world, nuclear facilities should never be attacked,” he said. Grossi’s remarks came after a visit to the Arab Gulf region, where he met regional leaders and toured the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates, which was struck by a drone on May 17. Also Read: Delhi hotel owner helped Bangladeshi nationals get fake Indian documents, was arrested, booked last year “Attacks on nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes are unacceptable. I solemnly reiterate my calls for the parties in this conflict and in all conflicts to respect the seven indispensable pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during a conflict,” Grossi said. He called for maximum restraint and warned that military activities involving nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities carry “unacceptable” risks. Also Read: Senate passes $70bn bill to fund immigration enforcement, without limits on Trump ‘anti-weaponisation’ fund Grossi emphasised that the IAEA applies the same standards to all countries and situations. “There are no double or triple standards here for the IAEA. An attack on any facility, wherever it is located, is unacceptable, a no-go, taboo,” he said. He also warned of the potential environmental and public safety consequences of any major release of radioactivity resulting from an attack on an operating nuclear power plant, adding, “The only sustainable path to peace, stability and cooperation is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy. This is what we are here for.”

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief, Rafael Grossi, said Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains central to any future agreement, and the possible options include exporting the nuclear material, diluting it or keeping it in Iran under IAEA monitoring.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says US and Iran close to agreeing to nuclear framework

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN’s nuclear watchdog agency, has warned of ‘urgency’ in agreement to avert a war between the United States and Iran, citing the risk presented by Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remained largely intact despite the US strikes on three major facilities last year. The US and Iran concluded a round of negotiations on Tuesday in Geneva, with both sides saying progress was made.&nbsp;President Donald Trump has bolstered the US military presence in the region to back up his threat of new strikes if no agreement is reached to rein in Iran’s nuclear programme.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-s-ai-minister-hails-natural-alliance-with-india-ahead-of-carney-visit-1771519372070">Canada’s AI minister hails ‘natural alliance’ with India ahead of Carney visit</a><h2>‘The problem is, we don’t have much time’</h2>&nbsp;In an interview with French network TF1, the IAEA director general said, “The problem is, we don’t have much time.”“Most of the material that Iran had accumulated up until June of last year, despite the [US] bombings and the attacks, is still there, in large quantities, where it was at the time of the strikes,” Grossi said.“Some of it may be less accessible, but the material is still there. From a non-proliferation standpoint, the material remains. That is why there is so much interest—I would say urgency—in reaching an agreement that would prevent new military action in the region.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-restore-all-visa-services-in-bangladesh-soon-after-change-of-guard-in-dhaka-1771513911927">India to restore all visa services in Bangladesh soon after change of guard in Dhaka</a>&nbsp;Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had claimed after ‘Operation Midnight Hammer’ in June 2025 that the American strikes had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear programme, but questions quickly arose over the extent of the damage inflicted.&nbsp;<h2>‘Vital to avoid another military confrontation between the US and Iran’</h2>&nbsp;As Russian warships and aircraft joined Iranian military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman this week, Grossi stressed that it was vital to avoid another military confrontation between the US and Iran, citing a “real risk of spillover and expansion to other countries.”“Everything must be done to avoid that situation,” he told the French network.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrested-on-66th-birthday-king-charles-brother-andrew-to-be-put-in-custody-suite-with-just-a-bed-and-toilet-1771502972260">Arrested on 66th birthday, King Charles’ brother Andrew to be put in custody suite with ‘just a bed and toilet’</a>&nbsp;“This is a key moment in a long history marked by both successes and failures. It is also a pivotal moment in a long-standing deadlock that has, of course, been shaped by conflict—including the ‘12-day war’ in June last yea,” Grossi said.&nbsp;“The fact that I myself was invited by the parties involved is a positive sign, because we are starting to discuss concrete issues—what actually needs to be done.”Trump has said he will not allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapons capacity, under any circumstances.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-this-is-tax-money-supreme-court-slams-poll-eve-freebie-culture-questions-fiscal-logic-1771496414543">‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic</a><h2>Trump considering attack on Iran this weekend: Reports</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, media reports said Trump was considering an attack on Iran as soon as this weekend but had not made a final decision.“Now is the time for Iran to join us on a path that will complete what we’re doing,” Trump said on Thursday at the Board of Peace meeting in Washington. “If it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen. But bad things will happen if it doesn’t.”&nbsp;Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Thursday urged any Polish citizens in Iran to leave immediately. “Do not go to this country ⁠under any circumstances,” he said, citing the “very real” possibility of a conflict making evacuations impossible in the near future.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi cited the risk presented by Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remained largely intact despite the US strikes on three major facilities last year. Most of the material that Iran had accumulated is still there in large quantities, he said.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN’s nuclear watchdog agency, has warned of ‘urgency’ in agreement to avert a war between the United States and Iran, citing the risk presented by Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remained largely intact despite the US strikes on three major facilities last year. The US and Iran concluded a round of negotiations on Tuesday in Geneva, with both sides saying progress was made. President Donald Trump has bolstered the US military presence in the region to back up his threat of new strikes if no agreement is reached to rein in Iran’s nuclear programme. Also Read: Canada’s AI minister hails ‘natural alliance’ with India ahead of Carney visit ‘The problem is, we don’t have much time’ In an interview with French network TF1, the IAEA director general said, “The problem is, we don’t have much time.” “Most of the material that Iran had accumulated up until June of last year, despite the [US] bombings and the attacks, is still there, in large quantities, where it was at the time of the strikes,” Grossi said. “Some of it may be less accessible, but the material is still there. From a non-proliferation standpoint, the material remains. That is why there is so much interest—I would say urgency—in reaching an agreement that would prevent new military action in the region.” Also Read: India to restore all visa services in Bangladesh soon after change of guard in Dhaka Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had claimed after ‘Operation Midnight Hammer’ in June 2025 that the American strikes had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear programme, but questions quickly arose over the extent of the damage inflicted. ‘Vital to avoid another military confrontation between the US and Iran’ As Russian warships and aircraft joined Iranian military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman this week, Grossi stressed that it was vital to avoid another military confrontation between the US and Iran, citing a “real risk of spillover and expansion to other countries.” “Everything must be done to avoid that situation,” he told the French network. Also Read: Arrested on 66th birthday, King Charles’ brother Andrew to be put in custody suite with ‘just a bed and toilet’ “This is a key moment in a long history marked by both successes and failures. It is also a pivotal moment in a long-standing deadlock that has, of course, been shaped by conflict—including the ‘12-day war’ in June last yea,” Grossi said. “The fact that I myself was invited by the parties involved is a positive sign, because we are starting to discuss concrete issues—what actually needs to be done.” Trump has said he will not allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapons capacity, under any circumstances. Also Read: ‘This is tax money’: Supreme Court slams poll-eve freebie culture, questions fiscal logic Trump considering attack on Iran this weekend: Reports Meanwhile, media reports said Trump was considering an attack on Iran as soon as this weekend but had not made a final decision. “Now is the time for Iran to join us on a path that will complete what we’re doing,” Trump said on Thursday at the Board of Peace meeting in Washington. “If it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen. But bad things will happen if it doesn’t.” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Thursday urged any Polish citizens in Iran to leave immediately. “Do not go to this country ⁠under any circumstances,” he said, citing the “very real” possibility of a conflict making evacuations impossible in the near future.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi cited the risk presented by Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remained largely intact despite the US strikes on three major facilities last year. Most of the material that Iran had accumulated is still there in large quantities, he said.

IAEA chief calls for urgent US-Iran deal, warns nuclear material ‘still there, in large quantities’

Iran could begin enriching uranium again "in a matter of months," despite the damage to its nuclear facilities from recent US and Israeli airstrikes, the head of the UN's atomic watchdog said on Saturday (Jun 28). In an interview, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said Iran retained the capacity to resume parts of its nuclear programme sooner than many expected. Even as US President Donald Trump and his administration continue to claim that Iran's nuclear sites were "obliterated" and its programme set back by "decades", Grossi in an ominous warning said "some is still standing" and that Tehran could be producing enriched uranium soon.<h2>IAEA chief's warning</h2>Speaking during an interview with CBS News, Rafael Grossi said that Iran "can have, you know, in a matter of months, I would say, a few cascades of centrifuges spinning and producing enriched uranium, or less than that".His remarks cast doubt on US President Donald Trump's repeated assertions that Iran's nuclear ambitions had been set back decades by the June 22 bombings, in which the US struck three Iranian sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Those strikes followed Israel's air campaign that began on June 13, targeting a dozen Iranian military and nuclear-related sites.Trump said the US attack, dubbed "Operation Midnight Hammer," used "bunker buster" bombs to obliterate Iran's underground enrichment infrastructure. But if Grossi is to be believed, "Some is still standing."Acknowledging concerns about the location of Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium — estimated at 408.6 kilograms, enriched to 60 per cent purity — which, if further refined, would be enough for nine nuclear bombs — the IAEA chief admitted: "We don't know where this material could be.""So some could have been destroyed as part of the attack, but some could have been moved. So there has to be at some point a clarification," he added.His statement comes as Iranian lawmakers have voted to suspend cooperation with the IAEA, and Tehran has denied Grossi's request to inspect the bombed sites, particularly Fordow — the main uranium enrichment facility."We need to be in a position to ascertain, to confirm what is there, and where is it and what happened," noted Grossi.<h2>US backs IAEA's critical verification need</h2>Even as Grossi voiced uncertainty regarding claims that Iran moved its enriched uranium stockpile before US strikes, Trump denied that such a thing could happen. In an interview with Fox News, the POTUS insisted, "It's a very hard thing to do plus we didn't give much notice...They didn't move anything."Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday expressed firm backing for the IAEA and its leadership amid threats from hardline Iranian lawmakers who have called for Grossi's arrest or even execution.Underscoring Washington's support for "the IAEA's critical verification and monitoring efforts in Iran," he commended Grossi and his team for their "dedication and professionalism.""Calls in Iran for the arrest and execution of IAEA Director General Grossi are unacceptable and should be condemned," he added.

Even as US President Donald Trump and his administration continue to claim that Iran's nuclear sites were "obliterated" and its programme set back by "decades", Grossi in an ominous warning said "some is still standing" and that Tehran could be producing enriched uranium soon.

Iran could begin enriching uranium again "in a matter of months," despite the damage to its nuclear facilities from recent US and Israeli airstrikes, the head of the UN's atomic watchdog said on Saturday (Jun 28). In an interview, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said Iran retained the capacity to resume parts of its nuclear programme sooner than many expected. Even as US President Donald Trump and his administration continue to claim that Iran's nuclear sites were "obliterated" and its programme set back by "decades", Grossi in an ominous warning said "some is still standing" and that Tehran could be producing enriched uranium soon. IAEA chief's warning Speaking during an interview with CBS News, Rafael Grossi said that Iran "can have, you know, in a matter of months, I would say, a few cascades of centrifuges spinning and producing enriched uranium, or less than that". His remarks cast doubt on US President Donald Trump's repeated assertions that Iran's nuclear ambitions had been set back decades by the June 22 bombings, in which the US struck three Iranian sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Those strikes followed Israel's air campaign that began on June 13, targeting a dozen Iranian military and nuclear-related sites. Trump said the US attack, dubbed "Operation Midnight Hammer," used "bunker buster" bombs to obliterate Iran's underground enrichment infrastructure. But if Grossi is to be believed, "Some is still standing." Acknowledging concerns about the location of Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium — estimated at 408.6 kilograms, enriched to 60 per cent purity — which, if further refined, would be enough for nine nuclear bombs — the IAEA chief admitted: "We don't know where this material could be." "So some could have been destroyed as part of the attack, but some could have been moved. So there has to be at some point a clarification," he added. His statement comes as Iranian lawmakers have voted to suspend cooperation with the IAEA, and Tehran has denied Grossi's request to inspect the bombed sites, particularly Fordow — the main uranium enrichment facility. "We need to be in a position to ascertain, to confirm what is there, and where is it and what happened," noted Grossi. US backs IAEA's critical verification need Even as Grossi voiced uncertainty regarding claims that Iran moved its enriched uranium stockpile before US strikes, Trump denied that such a thing could happen. In an interview with Fox News, the POTUS insisted, "It's a very hard thing to do plus we didn't give much notice...They didn't move anything." Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday expressed firm backing for the IAEA and its leadership amid threats from hardline Iranian lawmakers who have called for Grossi's arrest or even execution. Underscoring Washington's support for "the IAEA's critical verification and monitoring efforts in Iran," he commended Grossi and his team for their "dedication and professionalism." "Calls in Iran for the arrest and execution of IAEA Director General Grossi are unacceptable and should be condemned," he added.

Even as US President Donald Trump and his administration continue to claim that Iran's nuclear sites were "obliterated" and its programme set back by "decades", Grossi in an ominous warning said "some is still standing" and that Tehran could be producing enriched uranium soon.

IAEA chief warns Iran can resume uranium enrichment 'in months,' counters Trump's 'obliterated' nuclear sites claim

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been monitoring Iranian nuclear sites as Israel continues to attack nuclear facilities. The agency's Director General Rafael Grossi in a statement to the United Nations Security Council, said that if Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant is attacked, the consequences could be most serious.Bushehr is an operating nuclear power plant and &nbsp;hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material."Countries 7 of the region have reached out directly to me to express their concerns," Grossi said, adding that in case of an attack on this power plant, a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment."Similarly, a hit that disabled the only two lines supplying electrical power to the plant could cause its reactor’s core to melt, which could result in a high release of radioactivity to the environment," he noted.Attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused a sharp degradation in nuclear safety and security in Iran. Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur, the statement read.Continuing about Bushehr, in a worst case, both scenarios would require protective actions, including evacuations and sheltering of the population or the need to take stable iodine, "with the reach extending to distances from a few to several hundred kilometres."Moreover, radiation monitoring would need to cover distances of several hundred kilometres and food restrictions may need to be implemented.Grossi further called on maximum restraint, saying that the military escalation threatens lives and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon."The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idle during this conflict," he added.&nbsp;

Bushehr is an operating nuclear power plant and  hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been monitoring Iranian nuclear sites as Israel continues to attack nuclear facilities. The agency's Director General Rafael Grossi in a statement to the United Nations Security Council, said that if Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant is attacked, the consequences could be most serious. Bushehr is an operating nuclear power plant and hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. "Countries 7 of the region have reached out directly to me to express their concerns," Grossi said, adding that in case of an attack on this power plant, a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment. "Similarly, a hit that disabled the only two lines supplying electrical power to the plant could cause its reactor’s core to melt, which could result in a high release of radioactivity to the environment," he noted. Attacks on nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic of Iran have caused a sharp degradation in nuclear safety and security in Iran. Though they have not so far led to a radiological release affecting the public, there is a danger this could occur, the statement read. Continuing about Bushehr, in a worst case, both scenarios would require protective actions, including evacuations and sheltering of the population or the need to take stable iodine, "with the reach extending to distances from a few to several hundred kilometres." Moreover, radiation monitoring would need to cover distances of several hundred kilometres and food restrictions may need to be implemented. Grossi further called on maximum restraint, saying that the military escalation threatens lives and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon. "The IAEA, just as has been the case with the military conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, will not stand idle during this conflict," he added.

Bushehr is an operating nuclear power plant and &nbsp;hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material.

1,000 kg nuclear bombshell: Why attack on Iran’s Bushehr plant could trigger catastrophic fallout

Since Israel began attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been closely monitoring the situation at those sites. In a statement to the United Nations Security Council, the agency detailed the current situation at Iran's nuclear sites.<h2>Natanz nuclear facility</h2>Starting with the Natanz enrichment site, the agency stressed that the first facility at Natanz, its main Fuel Enrichment Plant, was attacked on June 13 when Israeli attacks targeted and destroyed electricity infrastructure at the facility, including an electrical sub-station, the main electric power supply building and emergency power supply and back-up generators.Coming to the second facility, is the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, "the above-ground part was functionally destroyed and the strikes on the underground cascade halls were seriously damaging."It added that within the Natanz facility, there is both radiological and chemical contamination. "It is possible that Uranium isotopes contained in Uranium Hexafluoride, Uranyl Fluoride and Hydrogen Fluoride are dispersed inside the facility."The radiation poses a "significant danger" if inhaled or ingested, and this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures.<h2>Fordow nuclear facility</h2>It is Iran's main enrichment location for enriching uranium to 60 per cent. The agency said that it is now aware of any damage at Fordow this time.<h2>Esfahan nuclear facility</h2>At the Esfahan site, four buildings were damaged last week, including the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor-fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility. "No increase of off-site radiation levels was reported."<h2>Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor</h2>On June 19, Israeli attacks hit the Khondab water reactor in Arak, which was under construction."As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, no radiological consequence is 6 expected," the statement read.<h2>Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant</h2>At Bushehr, the consequences of an attack could be "most serious", the IAEA statement read, stressing that it is an operating nuclear power plant and hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material." In case of an attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said to the UNSC.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The radiation poses a "significant danger" if inhaled or ingested, and this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures.

Since Israel began attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been closely monitoring the situation at those sites. In a statement to the United Nations Security Council, the agency detailed the current situation at Iran's nuclear sites. Natanz nuclear facility Starting with the Natanz enrichment site, the agency stressed that the first facility at Natanz, its main Fuel Enrichment Plant, was attacked on June 13 when Israeli attacks targeted and destroyed electricity infrastructure at the facility, including an electrical sub-station, the main electric power supply building and emergency power supply and back-up generators. Coming to the second facility, is the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, "the above-ground part was functionally destroyed and the strikes on the underground cascade halls were seriously damaging." It added that within the Natanz facility, there is both radiological and chemical contamination. "It is possible that Uranium isotopes contained in Uranium Hexafluoride, Uranyl Fluoride and Hydrogen Fluoride are dispersed inside the facility." The radiation poses a "significant danger" if inhaled or ingested, and this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures. Fordow nuclear facility It is Iran's main enrichment location for enriching uranium to 60 per cent. The agency said that it is now aware of any damage at Fordow this time. Esfahan nuclear facility At the Esfahan site, four buildings were damaged last week, including the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor-fuel manufacturing plant, and the enriched uranium metal processing facility. "No increase of off-site radiation levels was reported." Khondab Heavy Water Research Reactor On June 19, Israeli attacks hit the Khondab water reactor in Arak, which was under construction. "As the reactor was not operational and did not contain any nuclear material, no radiological consequence is 6 expected," the statement read. Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant At Bushehr, the consequences of an attack could be "most serious", the IAEA statement read, stressing that it is an operating nuclear power plant and hosts thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. " In case of an attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant a direct hit could result in a very high release of radioactivity to the environment," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said to the UNSC.

The radiation poses a "significant danger" if inhaled or ingested, and this risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures.

A significant danger? Which Iranian nuclear facility is most hit, IAEA answers - EXPLAINED

In an address to the United Nations Security Council on Friday (June 20), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief General Rafael Grossi warned that attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have sharply degraded their safety and posed serious radiological and environmental risks. Grossi confirmed that Israel’s recent strikes have targeted key facilities such as Natanz, Fordow, Esfahan, Arak, and Karaj, prompting global concern.&nbsp;According to Grossi, the Natanz enrichment site suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of electrical infrastructure and serious damage to its underground cascade halls. Though external radiation levels remained normal, Grossi stressed that the internal radiological and chemical contamination, including uranium hexafluoride and uranyl fluoride, posed a significant threat to personnel within the site.&nbsp;Fordow, a critical site for enriching uranium to 60%, has remained undamaged, Grossi stated. Meanwhile, the Esfahan site sustained damage to four facilities. Similar attacks were confirmed at Arak’s Heavy Water Reactor and the Karaj workshop, although no radiological release occurred.&nbsp;Of utmost concern is the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, where a direct hit could result in catastrophic radioactive release, affecting populations across Iran and beyond. Grossi warned that an attack or even a disruption of the plant’s power supply could lead to a core meltdown and long-term environmental consequences.&nbsp;The IAEA Director General called for immediate de-escalation, warning that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never occur” and could result in grave consequences within and beyond the state attacked. He urged the Security Council and international community to support the Agency’s role in verifying that Iran’s nuclear materials — including over 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% — remain accounted for and secure.&nbsp;Reiterating the Agency’s commitment to remain present and operational in Iran despite security constraints, Grossi said, “The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspection regime, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.” He called for a constructive, professional dialogue with all parties, emphasizing that “nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war” and reminding the Council that a diplomatic solution is within reach if supported by the necessary political will.&nbsp;The IAEA chief also said that Middle East faces a nuclear disaster if Israel attacks Iran's southern nuclear facility of Bushehr, the UN nuclear watchdog chief warned on Friday.&nbsp;International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director Rafael Grossi informed the UN Security Council that he has not yet seen radiation emanating from Israel's week-long aerial campaign on Iran, including strikes on nuclear facilities. But he added that an attack on Bushehr -- the Middle East's first civilian nuclear reactor, which has so far seemed to have been left intact -- would mean the gravest consequences because it holds thousands of kilograms of nuclear material.&nbsp;"Regional countries have come directly to me in the last few hours to communicate their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and perfectly clear -- a direct hit on the Bushehr nuclear power plant would entail a very high release of radioactivity," Grossi said.&nbsp;Grossi cautioned of just as bad effects even if Israel targets the lines powering electricity to Bushehr, as such disabling of power could lead to a meltdown. A worst case would require evacuations and shelter-in-place orders for zones within a few hundred kilometers of Bushehr, which would encompass cities in Gulf Arab monarchies, a lifeblood of the world economy. The people would have to take iodine and could also experience restrictions on food availability, Grossi explained.&nbsp;Grossi called for a diplomatic outcome and reiterated his offer to travel to strike a bargain."Nuclear weapons will not be made in Iran under a foolproof inspection system that the IAEA can assure," he said.

Nuclear facilities must not be targeted says UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi in statement to UNSC

In an address to the United Nations Security Council on Friday (June 20), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief General Rafael Grossi warned that attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have sharply degraded their safety and posed serious radiological and environmental risks. Grossi confirmed that Israel’s recent strikes have targeted key facilities such as Natanz, Fordow, Esfahan, Arak, and Karaj, prompting global concern. According to Grossi, the Natanz enrichment site suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of electrical infrastructure and serious damage to its underground cascade halls. Though external radiation levels remained normal, Grossi stressed that the internal radiological and chemical contamination, including uranium hexafluoride and uranyl fluoride, posed a significant threat to personnel within the site. Fordow, a critical site for enriching uranium to 60%, has remained undamaged, Grossi stated. Meanwhile, the Esfahan site sustained damage to four facilities. Similar attacks were confirmed at Arak’s Heavy Water Reactor and the Karaj workshop, although no radiological release occurred. Of utmost concern is the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, where a direct hit could result in catastrophic radioactive release, affecting populations across Iran and beyond. Grossi warned that an attack or even a disruption of the plant’s power supply could lead to a core meltdown and long-term environmental consequences. The IAEA Director General called for immediate de-escalation, warning that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never occur” and could result in grave consequences within and beyond the state attacked. He urged the Security Council and international community to support the Agency’s role in verifying that Iran’s nuclear materials — including over 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% — remain accounted for and secure. Reiterating the Agency’s commitment to remain present and operational in Iran despite security constraints, Grossi said, “The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspection regime, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.” He called for a constructive, professional dialogue with all parties, emphasizing that “nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war” and reminding the Council that a diplomatic solution is within reach if supported by the necessary political will. The IAEA chief also said that Middle East faces a nuclear disaster if Israel attacks Iran's southern nuclear facility of Bushehr, the UN nuclear watchdog chief warned on Friday. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director Rafael Grossi informed the UN Security Council that he has not yet seen radiation emanating from Israel's week-long aerial campaign on Iran, including strikes on nuclear facilities. But he added that an attack on Bushehr -- the Middle East's first civilian nuclear reactor, which has so far seemed to have been left intact -- would mean the gravest consequences because it holds thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. "Regional countries have come directly to me in the last few hours to communicate their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and perfectly clear -- a direct hit on the Bushehr nuclear power plant would entail a very high release of radioactivity," Grossi said. Grossi cautioned of just as bad effects even if Israel targets the lines powering electricity to Bushehr, as such disabling of power could lead to a meltdown. A worst case would require evacuations and shelter-in-place orders for zones within a few hundred kilometers of Bushehr, which would encompass cities in Gulf Arab monarchies, a lifeblood of the world economy. The people would have to take iodine and could also experience restrictions on food availability, Grossi explained. Grossi called for a diplomatic outcome and reiterated his offer to travel to strike a bargain. "Nuclear weapons will not be made in Iran under a foolproof inspection system that the IAEA can assure," he said.

Rafael Grossi appealed for a diplomatic solution and repeated his willingness to travel to negotiate a deal

'Nuclear facilities must not be targeted’, says UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi in statement to UNSC

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief, Rafael Mariano Grossi, revealed in an interview on Wednesday that the agency now cannot verify the whereabouts of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile since Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites.&nbsp;Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), also told Bloomberg in the interview that no other country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Tehran had warned stockpile could be moved’</h2>&nbsp;Grossi said Tehran had warned him that the stockpile could be moved in the event of an Israeli attack.&nbsp;Some 400 kg of uranium, enough for making 10 nuclear warheads, was previously stored under an IAEA seal in Isfahan.&nbsp;“At a time of war, all nuclear sites are closed,” Grossi said, adding further, “All our inspectors who are still in Iran… are not inspecting, no normal activity can take place.”&nbsp;Grossi then said, “No country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon… Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle. There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.”&nbsp;Before Israel’s preemptive strikes on the Islamic Republic, IAEA inspectors visited Iranian nuclear sites more than once a day, but Iran did not inform the IAEA of any “special measures” it planned to take to protect its uranium stockpile from being damaged in an attack, Grossi said.&nbsp;“We haven’t been informed of anything in detail. We don’t know what these protective additional measures to be,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Iran aware its stockpile needs to be under constant IAEA supervision’</h2>&nbsp;“Iran is aware that this stockpile needs to be there under constant IAEA supervision,” Grossi said.&nbsp;Grossi said important facilities at Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility were “badly hit” during Israeli strikes, but there was no significant damage to the site at Fordow.&nbsp;Isfahan has been repeatedly hit, with a few buildings being affected, he added.&nbsp;The IAEA is relying on satellite imagery and has seen no sign of the uranium being moved—which would be a violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, said the Bloomberg report.“It’s important to return to the diplomatic table as soon as possible because what’s at stake is very serious,” Grossi said with concern.&nbsp;Iran’s highly enriched uranium could fit into 16 cylinders measuring 36 inches (91.4 centimetres) in height, according to the US government’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle,” the director general said. “There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.”

On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.”

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief, Rafael Mariano Grossi, revealed in an interview on Wednesday that the agency now cannot verify the whereabouts of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile since Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), also told Bloomberg in the interview that no other country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon. On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.” ‘Tehran had warned stockpile could be moved’ Grossi said Tehran had warned him that the stockpile could be moved in the event of an Israeli attack. Some 400 kg of uranium, enough for making 10 nuclear warheads, was previously stored under an IAEA seal in Isfahan. “At a time of war, all nuclear sites are closed,” Grossi said, adding further, “All our inspectors who are still in Iran… are not inspecting, no normal activity can take place.” Grossi then said, “No country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon… Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle. There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.” Before Israel’s preemptive strikes on the Islamic Republic, IAEA inspectors visited Iranian nuclear sites more than once a day, but Iran did not inform the IAEA of any “special measures” it planned to take to protect its uranium stockpile from being damaged in an attack, Grossi said. “We haven’t been informed of anything in detail. We don’t know what these protective additional measures to be,” he said. ‘Iran aware its stockpile needs to be under constant IAEA supervision’ “Iran is aware that this stockpile needs to be there under constant IAEA supervision,” Grossi said. Grossi said important facilities at Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility were “badly hit” during Israeli strikes, but there was no significant damage to the site at Fordow. Isfahan has been repeatedly hit, with a few buildings being affected, he added. The IAEA is relying on satellite imagery and has seen no sign of the uranium being moved—which would be a violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, said the Bloomberg report. “It’s important to return to the diplomatic table as soon as possible because what’s at stake is very serious,” Grossi said with concern. Iran’s highly enriched uranium could fit into 16 cylinders measuring 36 inches (91.4 centimetres) in height, according to the US government’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information. “Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle,” the director general said. “There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.”

On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.”

‘Not aware of Iran’s near-weapons-grade uranium stockpile location now’: IAEA chief

The UN nuclear watchdog chief said on Monday that it is very likely all the roughly 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike.&nbsp;The International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General Rafael Grossi had earlier said the centrifuges at the underground enrichment plant at Natanz may have been damaged as a result of an airstrike on its power supply, even though the hall housing the plant itself did not seem to have been hit.&nbsp;“Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” Grossi said in an interview with the BBC.“I think there has been damage inside,” he said.&nbsp;Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action.Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.&nbsp;The above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Natanz was destroyed, said Grossi repeating his update to an exceptional meeting of his agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors hours earlier.&nbsp;Grossi further told the board that no damage was seen at the separate Fordow enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain. He later told the BBC, “There is very limited, if any, damage registered (there).”&nbsp;While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery.Grossi shared details on the damage to the four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear complex, including a uranium-conversion facility that turns ‘yellowcake’ uranium into uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, so it can be enriched to higher fissile purity.&nbsp;“Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 (uranium tetrafluoride) to EU (enriched uranium) metal processing facility, which was under construction,” he said.&nbsp;“In Isfahan you have underground spaces as well, which do not seem to have been affected,” said Grossi, adding further details while speaking to BBC.A Reuters report, citing a senior diplomat, said that the underground spaces are where much of Iran’s most highly enriched uranium stock is stored, but it will need closer examination to fully assess the situation there.

Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action, said Grossi. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.

The UN nuclear watchdog chief said on Monday that it is very likely all the roughly 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike. The International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General Rafael Grossi had earlier said the centrifuges at the underground enrichment plant at Natanz may have been damaged as a result of an airstrike on its power supply, even though the hall housing the plant itself did not seem to have been hit. “Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” Grossi said in an interview with the BBC. “I think there has been damage inside,” he said. Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds. The above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Natanz was destroyed, said Grossi repeating his update to an exceptional meeting of his agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors hours earlier. Grossi further told the board that no damage was seen at the separate Fordow enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain. He later told the BBC, “There is very limited, if any, damage registered (there).” While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery. Grossi shared details on the damage to the four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear complex, including a uranium-conversion facility that turns ‘yellowcake’ uranium into uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, so it can be enriched to higher fissile purity. “Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 (uranium tetrafluoride) to EU (enriched uranium) metal processing facility, which was under construction,” he said. “In Isfahan you have underground spaces as well, which do not seem to have been affected,” said Grossi, adding further details while speaking to BBC. A Reuters report, citing a senior diplomat, said that the underground spaces are where much of Iran’s most highly enriched uranium stock is stored, but it will need closer examination to fully assess the situation there.

Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action, said Grossi. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.

IAEA chief: Machines at Iran’s main enrichment plant at Natanz very likely ‘severely damaged’

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog IAEA Rafael Grossi on Monday (June 16) said there was "no indication of a physical attack" on the underground section of Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment site following Israeli strikes that destroyed the plant's above-ground section.&nbsp;"There has been no indication of a physical attack on the underground cascade hall containing part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and the main Fuel Enrichment Plant," International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement to an extraordinary board session. "However, the loss of power to the cascade hall may have damaged the centrifuges there," he added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran has urged IAEA to condemn Israeli strikes on nuclear sites at urgent meeting "We expect the (IAEA) Board of Governors and the Director General to take a firm position in condemning this act (attacking nuclear facilities) and holding the regime (Israel) accountable," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei during a weekly press briefing.&nbsp;Besides this, US President Donald Trump said on Sunday (June 15) that it is "possible" that America could get "involved" in the ongoing Israel-Iran war. Trump said while denying that at present, the US has no involvement in Israeli strikes against Iran.&nbsp;In an interview with ABC News, the US president said, "We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved."&nbsp;Although the US president denied commenting on the reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had urged the US to join the war.&nbsp;The Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday (June 16) that his country has no intention to develop nuclear weapons, but it will pursue its right to nuclear energy and research. News agency Reuters reported that Pezeshkian was reiterating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s religious edict against weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;The statement came amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war that was triggered on Friday (June 13) after Israel launched airstrikes on Iran. So far, 224 Iranians have lost their lives and over 1,200 people were injured. Meanwhile, in Israel, 17 people have been killed and 390 wounded since the conflict escalated.

No indication Atomic watchdog IAEA on attack targeting Irans underground Natanz nuclear site

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog IAEA Rafael Grossi on Monday (June 16) said there was "no indication of a physical attack" on the underground section of Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment site following Israeli strikes that destroyed the plant's above-ground section. "There has been no indication of a physical attack on the underground cascade hall containing part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and the main Fuel Enrichment Plant," International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi said in a statement to an extraordinary board session. "However, the loss of power to the cascade hall may have damaged the centrifuges there," he added. Meanwhile, Iran has urged IAEA to condemn Israeli strikes on nuclear sites at urgent meeting "We expect the (IAEA) Board of Governors and the Director General to take a firm position in condemning this act (attacking nuclear facilities) and holding the regime (Israel) accountable," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei during a weekly press briefing. Besides this, US President Donald Trump said on Sunday (June 15) that it is "possible" that America could get "involved" in the ongoing Israel-Iran war. Trump said while denying that at present, the US has no involvement in Israeli strikes against Iran. In an interview with ABC News, the US president said, "We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved." Although the US president denied commenting on the reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had urged the US to join the war. The Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday (June 16) that his country has no intention to develop nuclear weapons, but it will pursue its right to nuclear energy and research. News agency Reuters reported that Pezeshkian was reiterating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s religious edict against weapons of mass destruction. The statement came amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war that was triggered on Friday (June 13) after Israel launched airstrikes on Iran. So far, 224 Iranians have lost their lives and over 1,200 people were injured. Meanwhile, in Israel, 17 people have been killed and 390 wounded since the conflict escalated.

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog said there was ‘no indication of a physical attack’ on the underground section of Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment site

'No indication': Atomic watchdog IAEA on attack targeting Iran's underground Natanz nuclear site

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi on Friday (June 13) said that nuclear facilities "must never be attacked" and called "on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation" following Israeli strikes on Iran.&nbsp;"This development is deeply concerning... I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond," Grossi, who heads the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said in a statement to board members.&nbsp;“I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran. IAEA stands ready to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran,” he added.&nbsp;Prior to the statement from the IAEA chief, Iran sharply criticised the UN nuclear watchdog on Friday, accusing it of "silence" over Israel's strikes on its nuclear facilities and scientists.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a statement, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said it considers the "silence" from the International Atomic Energy Agency "as a form of cooperation with the Zionist regime," adding that the Israeli attack was a "defeat for the IAEA resulting from its unjustifiable shortcomings".&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran said Israel's deadly attacks on Friday underscored its need to advance uranium enrichment and missile capabilities. "One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power," the Iranian government said in a statement. “The world now better understands Iran's insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.”&nbsp;Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday also condemned a wave of Israeli strikes on Iran's military and nuclear facilities, warning they could "destabilise the region". "This aggression constitutes a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the region," said the Iran-backed militant group, whose October 2023 attack on Israel sparked the Gaza war. "Today, Iran is paying the price for its steadfast stance in support of Palestine and its resistance," it added.

Nuclear facilities must never be attacked says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi after Israel attacks Iran

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi on Friday (June 13) said that nuclear facilities "must never be attacked" and called "on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation" following Israeli strikes on Iran. "This development is deeply concerning... I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond," Grossi, who heads the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said in a statement to board members. “I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran. IAEA stands ready to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran,” he added. Prior to the statement from the IAEA chief, Iran sharply criticised the UN nuclear watchdog on Friday, accusing it of "silence" over Israel's strikes on its nuclear facilities and scientists. In a statement, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said it considers the "silence" from the International Atomic Energy Agency "as a form of cooperation with the Zionist regime," adding that the Israeli attack was a "defeat for the IAEA resulting from its unjustifiable shortcomings". Meanwhile, Iran said Israel's deadly attacks on Friday underscored its need to advance uranium enrichment and missile capabilities. "One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power," the Iranian government said in a statement. “The world now better understands Iran's insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.” Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday also condemned a wave of Israeli strikes on Iran's military and nuclear facilities, warning they could "destabilise the region". "This aggression constitutes a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the region," said the Iran-backed militant group, whose October 2023 attack on Israel sparked the Gaza war. "Today, Iran is paying the price for its steadfast stance in support of Palestine and its resistance," it added.

Grossi called "on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation" following Israeli strikes on Iran

'Nuclear facilities must never be attacked', says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi after Israel attacks Iran

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