A report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) revealed that Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity, nearing weapons-grade levels. As of October 26, Iran possesses approximately 400 pounds of uranium at 60% purity – enough to produce four nuclear bombs. This marks a 40-pound increase since August.
Experts indicate that 92 pounds of uranium enriched to 90% purity is required to build an atomic weapon. Iran’s total stockpile of enriched uranium, at all levels, now exceeds 14,500 pounds, an increase of nearly 1,900 pounds in just two months.
Iran has offered to halt further enrichment beyond 60% if the European Union and the United Kingdom drop new sanctions and the IAEA withdraws its planned censure resolution. The resolution, backed by European nations, condemns Iran’s lack of cooperation and calls for a detailed report on its nuclear activities.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi confirmed discussions with Iranian diplomats about possible oversight measures, though Iran’s compliance remains uncertain. Experts warn there is no civilian justification for uranium enrichment at 60%, fueling concerns that Iran may pursue nuclear weapons as a strategic deterrent, particularly after recent conflicts involving its proxies, Hamas and Hezbollah.
The United States and its allies remain wary of Iran’s intentions. U.S. intelligence suggests that over the past year, Iran has advanced its capability to manufacture weapons-grade materials. According to the Institute for Science and International Security, Iran could potentially produce weapons-grade uranium within seven days and amass enough for six to nine nuclear weapons within a month.
Meanwhile, the European Union and the U.K. have expanded sanctions against Iran, targeting entities involved in aiding Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. Tehran denies these allegations and has warned of retaliatory measures, asserting that such sanctions could backfire.
The IAEA board is expected to proceed with the censure resolution, which could escalate the matter to the U.N. Security Council for further action. The situation remains volatile as Tehran continues to resist international demands to rein in its nuclear program.
