IAEA Raises Concerns Over Iran’s Hidden Uranium Tunnels, Chief Says

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi claims most of Iran’s enriched uranium is likely still located in Isfahan. The IAEA chief believes the enriched uranium is saved in underground tunnels, as evidenced by satellite images showing airstrikes impact and trucks carrying containers entering these tunnels.

Inspections at the Isfahan nuclear complex were suspended due to war, with suspicion that uranium was moved into tunnels prior to the conflict in June 2025. Grossi stressed a ceasefire agreement would only be possible if Iran is politically ready for negotiations, emphasizing the importance of convincing Tehran of negotiation’s significance.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump urged Iran to ‘get smart soon’ and sign a deal following days of deadlock in efforts to end the conflict. A media report suggested the US would extend its blockade of Iran’s ports. Iran seeks US acknowledgment of its right to enrich uranium for peaceful, civilian purposes, with a stockpile of roughly 440 kilograms (970 pounds) of enriched uranium material that could be used for several nuclear weapons if further enriched.