The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has revealed a sharp increase in Iran’s production of near weapons-grade uranium, heightening global fears of a nuclear crisis amid escalating tensions with the United States. According to a confidential report obtained by The Associated Press, Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity surged to 274.8 kilograms (605.8 pounds) by February 8—a 50% jump since November 2024.
This enrichment level places Tehran just a technical step away from achieving weapons-grade material (90%), with experts estimating 42 kilograms could yield one nuclear bomb if further refined. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi warned,
The significantly increased production of high-enriched uranium by Iran, the only non-nuclear weapon state to do so, is of serious concern.
Key developments driving the crisis:
- Total enriched uranium stockpiles now stand at 8,294.4 kilograms (18,286 pounds)
- Advanced IR-6 centrifuges increased to 7 units at Fordo’s underground site
- 27 cascades of IR-2m centrifuges now operational in Natanz, up from 15
The Trump administration’s maximum pressurestrategy, including crippling oil sanctions and the 2018 nuclear deal withdrawal, has fueled reciprocal escalations. National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes stated,
President Trump remains committed to preventing a nuclear Iran while keeping dialogue open.However, Tehran continues expanding its capabilities, recently banning experienced IAEA inspectors and refusing to address uranium traces at disputed sites.
Iran maintains its nuclear program is peaceful, yet Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s mixed signals on U.S. talks—calling negotiations not honorableafter initially endorsing them—complicate diplomacy. With both nations hardening positions, the IAEA warns Iran now possesses enough material for multiple nuclear devices if weaponization occurs.
