Iran Increases Weapons-Grade Uranium, U.N. Urges Action/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Iran has significantly expanded its stockpile of near-weapons-grade uranium, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed in a confidential report. The U.N. nuclear watchdog called the situation “serious,” urging Iran to cooperate with investigations. Israel responded, warning the global community of Iran’s alleged intent to develop nuclear weapons.
Iran Uranium Surge: Quick Looks
- Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile grows nearly 50% since February
- IAEA warns Tehran is only non-nuclear state producing such material
- Stockpile now enough for multiple nuclear weapons, watchdog says
- Israel calls the report proof of Iran’s military nuclear ambitions
- IAEA report shows minimal cooperation from Iran on uranium probe
- Second report details three undeclared nuclear sites with traces
- Iran says its program is peaceful, demands full sanctions relief
- Potential for European snap-back sanctions grows ahead of October
- Trump says nuclear deal still possible without war
- IAEA’s Grossi urges “urgent” course correction by Iran
Deep Look: U.N. Watchdog Reports Iran Nearing Nuclear Breakout
VIENNA — Iran has sharply escalated its nuclear activities, amassing 408.6 kilograms (900.8 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60% purity — just a step below weapons-grade — according to a confidential report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) obtained by the Associated Press. This 50% increase from February’s figure intensifies fears that Tehran is moving closer to acquiring nuclear weapons capability.
The IAEA warned that Iran is now the only non-nuclear-weapons state enriching uranium to this level, calling the development “a matter of serious concern.” According to nuclear experts, just 42 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% is theoretically enough for one atomic bomb if further refined to 90%.
Iran’s Growing Stockpile Raises Alarms
As of May 17, Iran’s total enriched uranium inventory reached 9,247.6 kilograms (20,387.4 pounds) — an increase of over 2,100 pounds since February. Tehran maintains that its program is for peaceful energy purposes, but recent moves and rhetoric suggest a possible shift.
“Iran has enough uranium enriched near-weapons-grade to build several nuclear bombs if it chooses,” warned IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi.
Iran has neither confirmed nor denied the report’s findings but continues to resist full cooperation with IAEA inspectors probing past nuclear activities.
Israel Responds: Iran’s Intentions Are Clear
Reacting swiftly, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a stern statement:
“Iran is totally determined to complete its nuclear weapons program. Their level of enrichment has no civilian justification whatsoever,” the statement said, urging international action.
Israel has long argued that Iran’s nuclear program masks military ambitions. Netanyahu has also warned in past months that Israel may act unilaterally if diplomacy fails.
IAEA’s Probe Into Secret Nuclear Sites
Alongside the enrichment report, the IAEA released a 22-page “comprehensive report” outlining Iran’s continued refusal to explain uranium traces found at undisclosed nuclear sites. The sites — Turquzabad, Varamin, and Marivan — are believed to be part of an undeclared nuclear weapons effort halted around 2003.
A fourth site, Lavisan-Shian, was demolished by Iran before inspectors could access it.
“Iran’s cooperation has been less than satisfactory,” the IAEA report stated, adding that these sites were “likely part of an undeclared structured nuclear program.”
Tensions With West May Rise Ahead of October Deadline
The new revelations arrive at a fragile moment, as President Donald Trump continues negotiations for a possible nuclear deal with Tehran. However, Iran insists any deal must fully lift sanctions and permit its nuclear program to proceed under sovereign terms.
The comprehensive IAEA report could now provide grounds for European powers to reimpose “snap-back” sanctions, part of the original 2015 nuclear accord, which formally expires this October.
Western officials fear Iran is using the uncertainty to bolster its nuclear capabilities while avoiding international accountability.
Trump Still Hopes for a Diplomatic Deal
Despite mounting tensions, President Trump expressed optimism about diplomacy.
“They don’t want to be blown up. They would rather make a deal,” Trump said Friday, adding that “a peaceful resolution is still within reach.”
On Thursday, Trump told Netanyahu to hold off on military action against Iran, signaling the White House’s focus remains on securing a nuclear agreement before escalation.
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