The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has pulled its inspectors out of Iran due to safety concerns, further straining global oversight of the country’s nuclear programme. The move comes after Tehran suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) earlier this week.

Sources told The Wall Street Journal that the inspectors, who had been housed in Tehran since Israeli airstrikes began on June 13, were driven out of the country by road on Friday. Although commercial flights have resumed, the IAEA opted for ground evacuation due to security risks.

Oversight Severed Amid Rising Tensions

Iran’s suspension of cooperation with the IAEA and threats against Director General Rafael Grossi have eliminated direct international access to key nuclear facilities. Inspections of uranium enrichment and material stockpiles had previously occurred every few days.

The agency still has access to satellite imagery, and Western and Israeli intelligence services continue monitoring Iranian nuclear activity. However, the withdrawal casts doubt on Iran’s compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which mandates regular inspections and bans weapons development.

Diplomatic Prospects in Doubt

Iran maintains its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes, though tensions have escalated following Israeli strikes and mutual threats. U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday that Iran had expressed interest in resuming nuclear talks, but Tehran has not confirmed this.

The standoff now raises broader concerns over regional stability and the future of multilateral nuclear diplomacy with Iran.