Iran's Nuclear Material Remains Inaccessible Amid Facility Damage

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that enriched nuclear material is currently "under the rubble" of facilities damaged during recent conflicts with Israel. The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran is assessing the condition and accessibility of this material to report to the Supreme National Security Council, which oversees the nation's nuclear affairs.

Araghchi emphasized that the new cooperation framework with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) allows UN inspectors access only after approval from Iran's security body. This agreement distinguishes between facilities damaged in the conflict and those that were not, such as the Bushehr reactor. Access to undamaged sites will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Supreme National Security Council, while actions at damaged sites are on hold until environmental and safety concerns are addressed.

The IAEA has expressed concerns about the location of Iran's highly enriched uranium following the attacks. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi noted uncertainty regarding the whereabouts of this material. Despite these challenges, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, while Western nations continue to express skepticism.