Iran is currently in the headlines mainly because of its role in the Middle East conflict. Its nuclear program has received less attention. The IAEA has nothing positive to report in its latest report.
Concern about Iran’s nuclear program is growing at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The reason for this is the ongoing increase in highly enriched uranium, as IAEA chief Rafael Grossi explained in a report. The stock of this almost weapons-grade material increased by around 23 kilograms to almost 165 kilograms between May and August.
According to experts, around 50 kilograms of 60 percent uranium would be needed for a nuclear warhead. For use in nuclear weapons, it would have to be enriched a little further to a level of 90 percent. Iran officially insists that it does not aim for a nuclear arsenal. Grossi, however, pointed out that apart from nuclear weapons states, no other country other than Iran produces such highly enriched uranium.
According to the non-public report, which is available to the German Press Agency, Iran has, as announced, put numerous additional centrifuges for uranium enrichment into operation at two sites in recent months.
Grossi also reported that Tehran is still not talking to the Vienna-based nuclear authority about open questions about past secret nuclear activities. No talks have taken place since the election of the new Iranian President Massoud Peseschkian in early July, Grossi reported. In addition, Tehran is sticking to its decision not to allow experienced IAEA inspectors into the country.
In 2015, Iran committed to drastically limiting its nuclear program in an agreement. In return, Western sanctions were to be lifted. But then-US President Donald Trump withdrew from the pact in 2018. In return, Iran restarted its nuclear facilities and severely restricted IAEA inspections.
