In the wake of US and Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, UN inspectors face a complex challenge in determining the fate of Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles. The attacks, which occurred last weekend, targeted three key nuclear sites in Iran: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan [1][2][3].

US President Donald Trump declared that the facilities had been "obliterated" by American munitions, including bunker-busting bombs [1][3]. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), responsible for monitoring Iran's nuclear program, reports uncertainty regarding the extent of damage, particularly at the Fordow plant [1][3].

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stated on Monday that while the sensitive centrifuges used for uranium enrichment at Fordow were likely severely damaged, the status of Iran's enriched uranium stocks remains unclear [1][3]. The country possessed approximately 9 tonnes of enriched uranium, with over 400 kg enriched to near weapons-grade levels [3].

The Fordow facility, buried deep within a mountain, produced the majority of Iran's highly enriched uranium [1][3]. Its location and design pose significant challenges for both the attackers and inspectors attempting to assess the damage and locate the uranium stocks.

The strikes have created a "cat-and-mouse" scenario, where inspectors must determine whether the enriched uranium was buried under the rubble or potentially hidden away before the attacks [1][2][3]. This situation complicates efforts to account for Iran's nuclear materials and verify compliance with international agreements.

As the international community awaits further information, the IAEA's ability to effectively monitor and verify Iran's nuclear activities in the aftermath of these strikes remains a critical concern for global security and non-proliferation efforts.