Two reports by the U.N. nuclear watchdog revealed that Iran’s stock of uranium enriched close to weapons grade has significantly increased since December, when it announced an acceleration in enrichment. The stock of uranium enriched to up to 60% is of serious concern to Western powers, as there is no civil justification for enriching uranium to such a high level. Iran claims its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but the international community remains wary.
The reports highlighted the growing stock of 60% enriched uranium, enough for potentially six nuclear bombs, and the lack of progress in resolving outstanding issues such as unexplained uranium traces at undeclared sites. Despite diplomatic efforts, time is running out to impose new restrictions on Iran’s activities.
The International Atomic Energy Agency expressed concern over Iran’s increased production of high-enriched uranium, noting that it is the only non-nuclear weapon state producing such material. The lack of progress on outstanding issues, including unexplained uranium traces, has led to an impasse in resolving safeguards issues.
With the Iran nuclear deal largely in tatters after the U.S. withdrawal in 2018, European powers are seeking to either negotiate new limits on Iran’s nuclear program or reimpose sanctions before the deal expires in October. The situation remains tense, with Iran continuing to accelerate its uranium enrichment activities despite international pressure.
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