The International Atomic Energy Agency raises alarms about Iran’s uranium enrichment, amid ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported a significant development, indicating that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, nearing weapons-grade levels, has surged by 50% over the past three months.
This finding comes as talks between the United States and Iran continue, with Tehran asserting that its nuclear ambitions are purely for peaceful purposes. As of May 17, Iran reportedly stored 408.6 kilograms (900.8 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60%, an unprecedented level for a non-nuclear weapons state, reflecting a nearly 50% increase since the IAEA’s last assessment in February.
A confidential report, which has been disclosed to various media outlets, also highlights potential illicit nuclear activities at three sites that have long been under scrutiny, prompting concerns and a call for Iran to alter its trajectory.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi maintained the nation’s position, labeling nuclear weapons as “unacceptable.” He emphasized, “If the issue is nuclear weapons, yes, we too consider this type of weapon unacceptable. We agree with them on this issue,” during a televised address.
‘Both Parties Seeking Leverage’
This report, requested by the IAEA’s board of governors, provides Western powers—including the U.S., UK, France, and Germany—with grounds to accuse Iran of violating its non-proliferation commitments. On Friday, U.S. President Joe Biden stated that Iran “cannot have a nuclear weapon,” expressing optimism that diplomatic negotiations could yield a favorable resolution without further conflict in the region.
In 2015, Iran and six world powers, including the U.S. and EU, signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, designed to limit Iran’s nuclear program in return for sanction relief. However, following the unilateral withdrawal of the U.S. from the agreement in 2018 and subsequent reimposition of sanctions, Iran intensified its uranium enrichment efforts.
The IAEA noted in December that Iran’s uranium enrichment was accelerating towards the 60% purity mark, increasingly approaching the 90% threshold required for weapons-grade material. While Western nations argue that such high-level enrichment is incompatible with a civilian nuclear agenda, Iran contends its activities do not aim to develop nuclear arms.
Hamed Mousavi, a political science professor at Tehran University, suggested that the IAEA’s revelations might provide Iran with negotiating leverage in ongoing discussions with the U.S. He stated, “Both sides are attempting to strengthen their positions. For Iran, advancements in the nuclear program could enhance its bargaining power,” while also acknowledging the potential for the U.S. to respond with more sanctions or take further action at the UN Security Council.
“From the Iranian perspective, enriching uranium to 60% serves as a strategic tool to negotiate sanctions relief,” Mousavi added, highlighting the delicate balance both nations face in these negotiations.