[BUG] Unable to parse valid Python file during modification (Claude Code CLI)
Preflight Checklist
- [x] I have searched existing issues and this hasn't been reported yet
- [x] This is a single bug report (please file separate reports for different bugs)
- [x] I am using the latest version of Claude Code
What's Wrong?
Claude Code fails to parse and modify a valid Python file and throws an error during execution.
Even with a minimal Python script that contains no syntax errors, the tool is unable to process the file after permission is granted.
This breaks basic workflows such as adding type hints or modifying files via CLI.
What Should Happen?
Claude Code should successfully read, parse, and modify the Python file without errors.
It should correctly apply the requested changes (e.g., adding type hints) and update the file.
Error Messages/Logs
Error: "Unable to parse file"
Additional context:
- Occurs after granting file access
- Happens during file modification tasks
- File is valid and contains no syntax errors
Steps to Reproduce
- Create a file
test.pywith the following content:
```python
def hello():
print("test")
2.Run:
claude "add type hints to test.py"
3.Accept file access permissions
4.Observe the error:
"Unable to parse file"
Claude Model
Sonnet (default)
Is this a regression?
Yes, this worked in a previous version
Last Working Version
Unknown
Claude Code Version
2.1.118
Platform
Anthropic API
Operating System
Windows
Terminal/Shell
Windows Terminal
Additional Information
This issue impacts basic file editing workflows in Claude Code.
The failure occurs even with minimal and valid Python files, suggesting a potential issue with file parsing or CLI integration.
The problem is reproducible and does not depend on external dependencies, making it likely a core issue rather than environment-specific.
This significantly reduces reliability for development tasks.
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