Iran Increases Uranium Stockpile, Tensions Rise In Middle East

Head of Iran's atomic energy department Mohammad Eslami waves to media at the conclusion of his joint press conference with International Atomic Energy Organization, IAEA, Director General Rafa

Iran has reportedly boosted its stockpile of uranium enriched to nearly weapons-grade levels, as per a confidential report by the United Nations' nuclear watchdog. The move is seen as part of Iran's strategy to apply pressure on the international community. The country is aiming to have economic sanctions related to its nuclear program lifted in exchange for slowing down its activities.

The report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) comes amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly in the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Iran's uranium stockpile now includes 142.1 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60%, a technical step away from weapons-grade levels.

Iran's total enriched uranium stockpile currently stands at 6,201.3 kilograms, with an increase of 675.8 kilograms since the last IAEA report. The IAEA has warned that Iran possesses enough uranium enriched to near-weapons-grade levels to potentially create multiple nuclear bombs.

Move seen as pressure tactic to lift economic sanctions.

Iran boosts uranium stockpile enriched to 60% purity.

Iran's total enriched uranium stockpile now at 6,201.3 kilograms.

Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only. However, the IAEA chief has expressed concerns about the possibility of clandestine enrichment activities. Tensions between Iran and the IAEA have escalated since the US withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018.

Under the original 2015 nuclear deal, Iran was permitted to enrich uranium up to 3.67% purity and maintain a limited stockpile. However, Iran has since abandoned these restrictions and increased its enrichment activities.

The report also highlighted Iran's decision to bar IAEA inspectors from monitoring its nuclear program, a move that has hindered verification activities. The deaths of Iran's President and Foreign Minister have further complicated talks between Iran and the IAEA.

Iran has yet to provide answers to the IAEA's inquiries regarding manmade uranium particles found at undisclosed locations. Failure to address these concerns could impact the correctness and completeness of Iran's declarations under the safeguards agreement.

Furthermore, there has been no progress in reinstalling monitoring equipment removed in June 2022. The IAEA has urged Iran to cooperate fully to ensure effective verification of its nuclear activities.