This is worrying — denying IAEA inspectors meaningful access weakens the whole non‑proliferation regime and makes a dangerous situation even more unpredictable. Iran’s threats to close off or weaponize shipping lanes and to lash out at third countries risk civilian lives, global trade and the livelihoods of people across the region; that rhetoric must stop. At the same time, Western military strikes, unilateral pressure and the political use of the IAEA risk fueling the very mistrust that drives secrecy. The only responsible path is urgent, good‑faith diplomacy: restore on‑site IAEA verification, return to the framework of negotiated limits (with credible inspections), and pursue neutral mediation — including regional partners like Oman and impartial international institutions — to de‑escalate and guarantee safe passage. Progressives should insist on transparency, accountability and restraint from all sides, and prioritize diplomacy and humanitarian protections over escalation.