Iran Blocks IAEA Nuclear Inspections Amid Fuel Shortages

The Government of Iran is blocking International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors from visiting nuclear facilities damaged during United States and Israeli military strikes in June 2025. Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, stated that access will remain denied until new inspection protocols are drafted and approved. Eslami questioned the independence and competence of the IAEA, citing the organization's failure to condemn the strikes.

As a result of the lockout, the IAEA cannot verify the status of approximately 440 kilograms of 60 percent enriched uranium. This diplomatic standoff coincides with a domestic energy crisis. Vice President Mohammad Jafar Qaempanah announced that the government is considering increasing heavily subsidized fuel prices to address a growing gasoline shortage.

Qaempanah attributed the supply shortfall and the inability to import fuel to a United States naval blockade. He noted that the current distribution of gasoline is not equitable and that continuing on the current path is impossible.