New Enrichment Facility Blocked from Inspector Access

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi stated on the 18th (local time) in Washington that he has "not yet been able to visit" Iran's newly constructed underground uranium enrichment facility in Isfahan, making it impossible to confirm whether the facility is operational. This facility is Iran's fourth officially declared uranium enrichment facility, located within an underground nuclear facility complex.

Director General Grossi explained, "We don't know if it's simply an empty space or if centrifuge installation has begun," adding that "only when a visit becomes possible can we resolve many questions." IAEA inspectors had originally planned to visit this facility, but the schedule was reportedly canceled following Israel's airstrike on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025.

Estimated to Possess Enriched Uranium Sufficient for 10 Nuclear Weapons

The IAEA currently estimates that Iran possesses approximately 440kg of 60% enriched uranium. This quantity, if further enriched to weapons-grade 90%, would be sufficient to manufacture approximately 10 nuclear weapons. However, relevant experts have emphasized that calculating the exact timeline to actual nuclear weapon development remains difficult.

Iran's nuclear activities represent a core issue in the response strategy being pursued by the United States and Israel against the Tehran regime. While both countries claim Iran is on the verge of nuclear weapon development, Iranian authorities maintain their position that they have no intention of developing nuclear weapons.

Transparency Challenges and Regional Security Concerns

Director General Grossi's remarks came during his visit to the United States for meetings with Trump administration officials and participation in a Washington conference. The IAEA's inability to access Iran's new enrichment facility signifies a serious gap in the nuclear transparency verification system.

The South Korean government views Iran's nuclear issue as a major factor in Middle East regional security instability and a challenge to the global non-proliferation regime. A Foreign Ministry official has stated, "Ensuring transparency in Iran's nuclear program and addressing international concerns is urgent," adding that "South Korea supports the IAEA's verification activities." Considering the impact of Middle East-originating energy security volatility on the Korean economy, the peaceful resolution of Iran's nuclear issue is directly connected to South Korea's interests.