Two reports by the U.N. nuclear watchdog revealed that Iran’s stock of uranium close to weapons grade has significantly increased since December. The stock of uranium enriched to up to 60% fissile purity, close to bomb-grade levels, has raised concerns for Western powers. Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but the IAEA expressed serious concern over the increased production of high-enriched uranium by Iran.
The reports highlighted the lack of progress in resolving longstanding issues, including the presence of uranium traces at undisclosed sites. The stock of uranium enriched to up to 60% grew by 92.5 kg in the past quarter, enough potentially for six nuclear bombs. Iran’s accelerated production of enriched uranium has raised further concerns, with the country now producing between 35 and 40 kg of such material per month.
The IAEA reports emphasized the impasse in resolving outstanding issues with Iran, with the Islamic Republic claiming to have declared all its nuclear activities while the agency disagrees. This lack of progress comes as the U.S. under President Trump plans to pressure Iran over its nuclear program.
Following Trump’s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018, Iran breached and surpassed the limits set by the agreement. European powers are now working to either impose new restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program or reimpose sanctions before the deal expires in October. The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts to address Iran’s nuclear activities are running out of time.
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