Iran's uranium enrichment 'worrisome' - nuclear watchdog

Rafael Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), recently shared his serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear activities. He stated that Iran has decided to significantly increase its production of highly enriched uranium, which is a crucial step towards developing nuclear weapons. Grossi pointed out that Iran is now enriching uranium to a level of 60%, which is dangerously close to the purity required for a nuclear weapon. This move is perceived by many in the region as a response to Iran's recent military and diplomatic challenges in areas such as Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza. While Grossi acknowledged that some Iranian politicians are openly advocating for the development of nuclear weapons, he emphasized that the current leadership does not appear to be pursuing that path. He made these remarks during the Manama Dialogue conference in Bahrain, where he also cautioned Israel against launching attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, warning that such actions could lead to severe consequences, including retaliation from Iran and the potential spread of radiation. During his visit to Iran, Grossi confirmed that the IAEA inspectors had observed Iran feeding more partially enriched uranium into the centrifuges at the Fordow nuclear plant, located south of Tehran. This operational change means that the facility could produce approximately 34 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% each month, a significant increase from the previous production rate of just 4. 7 kilograms. In light of these developments, the IAEA has called for urgent additional safety measures at the Fordow plant to ensure that Iran is not misusing the facility to produce uranium at levels higher than what it has officially declared. Although Iran continues to deny having a military nuclear program, Grossi pointed out that the country's nuclear energy facilities have expanded considerably over the last decade. He remarked that the Iran of 2025 is vastly different from the Iran of 2015, as the current production levels of 60% enriched uranium could enable Iran to develop a nuclear device much more rapidly if it chooses to do so. Grossi also mentioned that during his recent discussions with Iranian leaders, they assured him that they would limit their production of 60% enriched uranium. However, this increase in production comes after limited progress was made in nuclear negotiations between European and Iranian officials. Grossi highlighted that there are factions within Iran that are vocally advocating for the country to pursue its own nuclear weapons program. He expressed hope that the current leadership would not choose this path, as he believes it would be a regrettable decision. Meanwhile, Israel has not yet launched a full-scale attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, but its leaders have openly discussed the possibility. When asked about the potential consequences of such an attack, Grossi warned that it would likely provoke a military response from Iran. He also noted that a significant portion of Iran's nuclear program is located underground and is well-protected, meaning that any military action would require a substantial deployment of force. Grossi expressed his hope that the situation would not escalate to that level, as he is acutely aware of the serious radiological consequences that could arise from an attack on a nuclear facility. Furthermore, Grossi raised concerns about the global nuclear non-proliferation regime, stating that it is under increasing stress as established nuclear powers appear to be modernizing their arsenals. This situation has led other nations to contemplate acquiring nuclear weapons for their own security. Grossi noted that some countries are questioning why they should not also pursue nuclear capabilities, especially in a world where conflicts are on the rise and major powers are suggesting the potential use of nuclear weapons.