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Iran Boosts Uranium Enrichment Amid Diplomatic Tensions
Iran has significantly increased its production of highly enriched uranium, according to a confidential report from the UN’s nuclear watchdog. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Saturday that Tehran views nuclear weapons as "unacceptable."
The latest quarterly report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) indicates that Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% has risen substantially, nearing the 90% threshold typically associated with nuclear weapons. As of May 17, Iran holds approximately 408.6 kilograms of uranium enriched to this level, marking an increase of 133.8 kilograms since February.
Currently, Iran’s total stock of enriched uranium exceeds 45 times the limit set by the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers, totaling an estimated 9,247.6 kilograms. The IAEA expressed serious concerns about Iran’s ongoing production and accumulation of highly enriched uranium, noting that it is the only non-nuclear-weapon state producing such material.
In a separate comprehensive report, the IAEA criticized Tehran for its "less than satisfactory" cooperation regarding the oversight of its nuclear activities, particularly pointing out the lack of progress in clarifying the presence of nuclear material at undeclared sites.
Navigating Complex Negotiations
This report emerges as Tehran engages in delicate discussions with the United States regarding its nuclear program. Western nations have long been wary, suspecting that Iran aims to develop nuclear weapons capabilities to counter the perceived threat from Israel, which is believed to possess an undisclosed nuclear arsenal.
In response to the IAEA’s findings, Israel accused Iran of being "fully committed" to acquiring nuclear weapons, asserting that such high levels of enrichment are only found in nations actively pursuing nuclear arms and lack any civilian rationale.
Araghchi reiterated Iran’s historic stance, stating that nuclear weapons are "unacceptable." He emphasized in a televised address, "If the issue is nuclear weapons, then we also find that type of weapon to be unacceptable. We are in agreement on this matter."
These comments came one day after U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned that Iran "cannot possess a nuclear weapon," while expressing optimism about reaching a potential deal soon.
Recently, Araghchi rejected what he called "media speculation" suggesting progress towards an agreement, stating he was uncertain if a deal was on the horizon. Iran has participated in five rounds of discussions with the U.S. to establish a new agreement to replace the one abandoned by Trump in 2018. Although no specific dates or locations for the next talks have been confirmed, Araghchi indicated that an announcement from Oman, which is mediating the negotiations, is expected soon.
The two nations remain at odds over Iran’s uranium enrichment activities—activities that the U.S. insists must end, while Iran maintains its rights under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Positive Conversations Amid Tensions
Despite the ongoing tensions, Trump noted that "we’re having some very good discussions with Iran," and cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, stating that it would not be "appropriate at this time."
Israel has previously threatened military action following hostile encounters last year, during which it targeted Iranian air defense systems. Although military options remain on the table, Trump has emphasized the importance of allowing space for negotiations. He has also implied that any potential military actions would be led by Israel rather than the United States.
After exiting the 2015 agreement, Trump initiated a "maximum pressure" strategy against Iran by reinstating sweeping sanctions that had been lifted in exchange for restrictions on Iran’s nuclear endeavors. Although Iran adhered to the accord for a year, it later began reducing its compliance.
Currently, Iran possesses the largest stockpile of highly enriched uranium among nations without a nuclear arsenal. With enrichment levels exceeding 60%, far surpassing the 3.67% limit set by the 2015 agreement, Iran has indicated that if a deal materializes, it may allow U.S. inspectors to join UN teams monitoring compliance.
Nuclear official Mohammad Eslami mentioned that Iran would "reconsider the acceptance of American inspectors via the IAEA" if an agreement is reached and Iran’s demands are adequately addressed.
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