UN nuclear watchdog warns Iran could resume uranium enrichment within months despite U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. Learn about the IAEA’s concerns and Iran’s nuclear program at TheInterviewTimes.com.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, has raised alarms over Iran’s potential to resume uranium enrichment within months, despite recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes targeting its nuclear facilities. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, in an interview with CBS News, warned that Iran’s nuclear capabilities remain largely intact, posing significant global security concerns.
Iran’s Nuclear Program: Resilient Despite Airstrikes
Recent airstrikes on Iran’s key nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, caused “severe” but not “total” damage, according to Grossi. While the strikes disrupted some operations, Iran retains the industrial capacity and technological expertise—particularly its stockpile of advanced centrifuges—to restart uranium enrichment “in a matter of months, or less.” This assessment contradicts claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated the attacks had “completely obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program.
A preliminary U.S. intelligence report supports the IAEA’s findings, noting that the strikes caused only “limited” damage to underground components and left much of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile intact. Iran is believed to possess approximately 408.6 kg (900 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity—close to the 90% threshold for weapons-grade material. Grossi expressed concern that some of this stockpile may have been moved to secret locations before the strikes, complicating efforts to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities.
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Growing Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions
The IAEA has reported that Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium has grown significantly in recent years, enough to theoretically produce multiple nuclear weapons if further enriched. However, Grossi clarified that “they didn’t have nuclear weapons,” emphasizing that the agency’s concerns center on Iran’s potential capabilities rather than confirmed weapons development.
Adding to global unease, Iran has suspended cooperation with the IAEA, denying inspectors access to key sites like Fordow. The country is also considering withdrawing from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), a move that would further limit international oversight of its nuclear program. Unexplained uranium traces found at undeclared sites have heightened suspicions about Iran’s intentions.
Global Implications and Ongoing Challenges
The IAEA’s warning comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iran’s nuclear program remaining a focal point of international diplomacy. The agency’s limited access to Iran’s facilities and the potential relocation of enriched uranium stockpiles create significant challenges for verifying the country’s nuclear activities. Grossi’s statements underscore the resilience of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and the urgent need for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
As the world watches closely, the IAEA continues to call for transparency and cooperation from Iran to ensure compliance with international nuclear agreements. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for rapid developments in the coming months.
Stay tuned to TheInterviewTimes.com for the latest updates on Iran’s nuclear program and global security news.