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Vienna: The UN nuclear watchdog on May 19 called on the United States to allow its inspectors to return to Iraq, warning about the safety of nuclear sites looted since Saddam Hussein was toppled last month.

"I am deeply concerned by the almost daily reports of looting and destruction at nuclear sites and about the potential radiological safety and security implications of nuclear and radiological materials that may no longer be under control," International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Chief Mohamed ElBaradei said in statement.

The IAEA last month called for its inspectors to return to Iraq but the United States, which is effectively in control of the country since Saddam fell, has so far not given a decision.

Earlier this month, the Agency also said it was concerned that material suitable for use in "dirty" bombs that spread atomic radiation could be stolen from nuclear sites in Iraq.

"We have a moral responsibility to establish the facts without delay and take urgent remedial action," ElBaradei said.