Iran Boosts Uranium Stockpile Before Israeli Attacks, IAEA Reports

Iran’s Uranium Stockpile Increases to Near Weapons-Grade Levels

A confidential report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has revealed that Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels. The report, shared with member states, highlights a concerning development as tensions in the region continue to escalate.

According to the IAEA, as of 13 June, Iran had accumulated 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, which is a 32.3-kilogram increase compared to the previous report in May. This level of enrichment brings Iran closer to the threshold required for nuclear weapons, which typically requires uranium enriched to 90%. The IAEA noted that this figure is based on information provided by Iran, verification activities conducted between 17 May and 12 June, and estimates derived from past operations at relevant facilities.

The report also emphasizes that the 60% enriched uranium is only a short technical step away from weapons-grade material. This raises significant concerns among international observers, as it could potentially enable Iran to develop nuclear weapons if further enriched.

Challenges in Resuming Inspections

Despite the urgency of the situation, the IAEA and Iran have not reached an agreement on resuming inspections of sites affected by recent air strikes. The only site inspected since the conflict has been the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which operates under Russian technical assistance. The lack of access to other facilities has raised serious concerns about the transparency of Iran's nuclear program.

Rafael Grossi, the director general of the IAEA, stated in the report that "technical modalities to enable the full resumption of Agency inspection should be concluded without delay." He emphasized the importance of restoring inspection activities to ensure compliance with international nuclear safeguards.

The withdrawal of UN inspectors from Iran during the fighting was deemed necessary due to the security situation. However, the IAEA expressed deep regret over Tehran's decision to halt cooperation with the agency. This lack of cooperation has hindered the ability of the IAEA to conduct in-field activities required to verify Iran’s nuclear declarations.

Concerns Over Unverified Stockpiles

Since 13 June, the IAEA has been unable to conduct the necessary field activities to verify Iran’s nuclear stockpiles. This has left a gap in the agency’s ability to accurately assess the changes in Iran’s uranium enrichment levels. The IAEA has described this situation as "a matter of serious concern," highlighting the risks associated with unverified nuclear materials.

The agency estimates that approximately 42 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium could theoretically be used to produce one atomic bomb if further enriched to 90%. This underscores the potential dangers of Iran’s continued enrichment activities and the need for international oversight.

Iran’s Stance and International Assessments

Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful and aimed at energy production. However, it remains the only non-nuclear-armed nation enriching uranium to such high levels. The United States, the IAEA, and other international bodies have assessed that Iran had a nuclear weapons program until 2003. While Iran denies any current intent to develop nuclear weapons, the recent increase in enriched uranium stockpiles has raised alarms among global powers.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring transparency and accountability in Iran's nuclear activities. As the international community continues to monitor developments, the need for dialogue and cooperation remains critical in preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons.