This analysis summarizes and assesses information in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA’s) periodic safeguards report, NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) Safeguards Agreement with the Islamic Republic of Iran, the most recent of which was issued on May 31, 2021. The IAEA reports that no progress was made in its investigation into Iran’s undeclared nuclear material and activities, an inquiry that began anew in 2018; Tehran continues to stonewall IAEA requests for documentation, information, and explanations. As a result, the IAEA issues an atypical condemnation of Iran’s cooperation, “The lack of progress in clarifying the Agency’s questions concerning the correctness and completeness of Iran’s safeguards declarations seriously affects the ability of the Agency to provide assurance of the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.”

The IAEA Board of Governors will next meet from June 7 to 11. Since 2003, in instances when the IAEA has issued strong reports underscoring Iran’s lack of cooperation, the Board has reacted, giving the IAEA the needed support to pursue Iran’s compliance with its legal non-proliferation obligations.

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Read the full report at the Institute for Science and International Security.