Iran Escalates Uranium Enrichment, Raising Global Concerns
International Atomic Energy Agency reports significant increase in Iran's production of near-weapons-grade uranium, calling the development 'seriously concerning.'
- Iran has increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity to 275 kilograms, a 91-kilogram rise since late October, according to the IAEA.
- This level of enrichment is far beyond what is needed for civilian energy purposes but remains below the 90% threshold required for nuclear weapons.
- The IAEA highlighted that Iran is the only non-nuclear-armed state producing such highly enriched uranium, heightening international alarm.
- Tehran accelerated production after a critical IAEA resolution and announced plans to deploy advanced centrifuges, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
- Efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal remain stalled, with Iran rejecting direct talks with the U.S. following new sanctions imposed by Washington.