Iran has dramatically increased its production of near weapons-grade uranium, according to a confidential IAEA report obtained by The Associated Press. The nation now holds 274.8 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity—a 50% surge since November 2024—putting it just one technical step away from nuclear weapons capability.
The significantly increased production and accumulation of high enriched uranium by Iran is of serious concern,stated the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Key developments include:
- Stockpile growth from 182.3 kg to 274.8 kg in three months
- Total enriched uranium reserves now exceed 8,294 kg
- 42 kg of 60% enriched material could yield one nuclear weapon if processed further
The escalation comes as U.S.-Iran relations deteriorate under President Trump's maximum pressurestrategy, which reinstated sanctions and targeted oil exports. While Iranian officials maintain their nuclear program serves peaceful purposes, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warns Tehran could now produce severalatomic bombs if it chooses.
Recent diplomatic tensions intensified after Iran banned experienced UN inspectors and responded to IAEA criticism by activating advanced centrifuges. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei's mixed signals about negotiations—first endorsing dialogue, then condemning it—further complicate international efforts to address this crisis.
U.S. intelligence agencies confirm Iran hasn't initiated a formal weapons program but note concerning preparatory activities. With both nations locked in a high-stakes geopolitical standoff, the global community faces urgent decisions about nuclear nonproliferation safeguards.
