China Blames U.S., Israeli Strikes for Blocking IAEA Inspections in Iran

TEHRAN, Oct 27 (OPA) — China’s envoy to the United Nations Security Council formally accused the United States and Israel of obstructing International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) oversight in Iran. During a session on Monday, the representative argued that ongoing military operations against Iranian nuclear infrastructure have created an environment where international monitoring is no longer feasible.

Beijing’s statement directly linked the current impasse to the U.S. withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The Chinese delegation further criticized the E3—France, Germany, and the United Kingdom—for failing to uphold their commitments under the 2015 nuclear agreement, which Beijing contends has exacerbated regional instability.

These remarks follow recent reports from IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, who confirmed that Iran has restricted access to key facilities, including those in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. The agency has expressed growing concern over the lack of transparency regarding Iran’s nuclear activities, noting that the absence of monitoring equipment complicates efforts to verify the peaceful nature of the program.

Diplomatic tensions remain high as the international community struggles to revive nuclear negotiations. While Western powers continue to demand full compliance and transparency from Tehran, Iran maintains that its defensive posture is a direct response to external military pressure and the failure of signatory nations to provide the economic relief promised under the original nuclear deal.