Definition
The IAEA is the UN-affiliated body responsible for monitoring civilian nuclear programmes and verifying that signatory states' activities are consistent with the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Its inspections, reports, and statements on enrichment levels are the standard external reference for nuclear-programme disputes.
Why this matters when reading conflict news
IAEA statements are typically the most authoritative non-aligned source on Iran's nuclear programme — and they regularly disagree with both Western and Iranian official lines.