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The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported a significant change in Iran’s nuclear ambitions, indicating an acceleration in its uranium enrichment program. According to the IAEA’s latest quarterly verification and monitoring report, Iran has increased its production of highly enriched uranium. This move reverses a previous production decline observed since mid-2023.
The report estimates that Iran’s stockpile of 60% enriched uranium now stands at 128.3 kilograms, an increase of 6.7 kilograms from the agency’s previous assessment. This level of enrichment is significant as it brings the uranium closer to the percentage needed for use in a nuclear weapon. Typically, uranium of such quality is considered when it reaches an enrichment of about 90%.
In recent weeks, Iran is reported to have tripled its production of highly enriched uranium, a change that has been confirmed according to REUTERS, which received information from the International Atomic Energy Agency.
According to the IAEA, approximately 42 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% is the amount at which the construction of a nuclear bomb cannot be ruled out. Iran already has enough uranium enriched to 60% and could theoretically construct three nuclear bombs if further enriched.