Iran has further expanded its stockpile of uranium enriched to nearly weapons-grade levels, according to a confidential report released Monday by the United Nations' nuclear watchdog.
Iran aims to have economic sanctions lifted, which were imposed due to its controversial nuclear program, in exchange for slowing down the program. This initiative, like all state matters in Iran, is overseen by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and the leadership structure is expected to remain unchanged despite last week’s helicopter crash that killed the country's president and foreign minister.
The International Atomic Energy Agency’s report emerges amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, exacerbated by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Last month, Israel and Iran conducted direct strikes on each other's territories for the first time, heightening regional instability.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has highlighted the potential proliferation risks posed by Iran's uranium enrichment activities. According to IAEA standards, around 42 kilograms (92.5 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% could theoretically be sufficient to produce one nuclear weapon if further enriched to 90%.
As of May 11, 2024, Iran's total stockpile of enriched uranium is reported to be 6,201.3 kilograms (13,671.5 pounds), marking an increase of 675.8 kilograms (1,489.8 pounds) since the last report. Iran has accumulated 142.1 kilograms (313.2 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60%, which is an increase of 20.6 kilograms (45.4 pounds) since February.
Despite ongoing consultations, Iran has not reversed its September 2023 decision to limit IAEA monitoring. The recent deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian have temporarily halted the IAEA's discussions with Iran regarding improved cooperation.
Read more here (AP News)
