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Iran's Stockpile of Near-Weapons-Grade Uranium Surges, IAEA Warns

The UN nuclear watchdog reports Iran now possesses enough enriched uranium for multiple nuclear weapons, further straining international tensions.

This photo released Nov. 5, 2019, by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, shows centrifuge machines in the Natanz uranium enrichment facility in central Iran. (Atomic Energy Organization of Iran via AP, File)
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FILE - A worker rides a bicycle in front of the reactor building of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, just outside the southern city of Bushehr, Iran, Oct. 26, 2010. (Majid Asgaripour/Mehr News Agency via AP, File)
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Overview

  • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports Iran has accumulated 274.8 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, a 51% increase since November 2024.
  • Experts note that Iran's current stockpile, if enriched further to 90%, could produce material for at least six nuclear weapons.
  • Iran has restricted IAEA inspectors' access since 2023, leaving unresolved questions about undeclared nuclear activity at key sites.
  • U.S. President Donald Trump reintroduced a 'maximum pressure' campaign with sanctions, while signaling openness to a potential nuclear peace agreement.
  • Israel has warned of possible military action if diplomatic efforts fail, as regional fears of a nuclear arms race grow.