Iran has boosted its 60% enriched uranium stockpile by over 50% in three months, raising concerns about its potential development of nuclear weapons. The IAEA headquarters expressed serious worries about Iran’s inspection obstructions and reaffirmed its readiness to facilitate diplomatic engagements. Despite Iran’s denials of weapon development aspirations, the situation underscores the complexities of international nuclear agreements and ongoing tensions over compliance.
Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of near-weapons grade uranium, raising it by over 50% in just three months, as reported by a UN agency on Monday. This stockpile now stands at 275 kg of 60% enriched uranium, making Iran the only non-nuclear weapon state enriching uranium to this degree, according to Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Enriched uranium at this level poses a considerable threat as it is a step away from the 90% threshold required for nuclear weapons.
Iran’s rapid accumulation of enriched uranium and lack of cooperation with the IAEA raise serious global concerns about its nuclear intentions. The situation remains precarious, as Tehran continues to flout the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal while international dialogue appears stagnated. Despite ongoing tensions, the IAEA has expressed willingness to facilitate diplomatic efforts. The situation requires close monitoring to ensure that Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com