International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi stated today that the nuclear non-proliferation system—"which has served as the cornerstone of international security for over half a century"—is now "at stake." His remarks came during an emergency UN Security Council meeting convened to address threats to global peace and security, including recent developments in the Middle East.

Grossi emphasized that a "window of opportunity for diplomacy" exists but warned that if missed, "violence and destruction could reach unimaginable levels." He stressed that any future agreement would require verifiable facts on the ground—a process only achievable through IAEA inspections.

The IAEA chief confirmed that agency inspectors remain present in Iran but require an immediate cessation of hostilities to "enable safe and secure access to sites." He noted Tehran could implement special protective measures for its nuclear materials and equipment in line with its IAEA obligations.

Critical Monitoring Gaps
Grossi revealed that "no party—including the IAEA—is currently able to assess subsurface damage at Fordow," Iran's primary uranium enrichment facility where 60% enrichment occurs. While Iran reported no elevated radiation levels at three bombarded sites (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan), the IAEA continues monitoring and urges Iranian regulators to maintain their "indispensable" communication link with the agency's Incident and Emergency Centre.

Condemnation of Attacks on Nuclear Facilities
Reiterating his firm stance, Grossi declared armed attacks on nuclear installations must "never occur," warning they could trigger radioactive releases with "severe consequences both within and beyond national borders."

Operational Readiness
The IAEA stands ready to immediately deploy nuclear safety and security experts to Iran with Security Council backing, supplementing existing safeguards inspectors. Grossi affirmed the agency's commitment to de-escalating this military confrontation through its mandated role.