Iran is making more near-weapons-grade uranium, which is causing worries as tensions rise with the U.S. after President Donald Trump took office. A recent report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) shows that as of early February, Iran has 274.8 kilograms (605.8 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60%. This is a jump of 92.5 kilograms (203.9 pounds) since November.
This 60% enriched uranium is just a step away from being weapons-grade, which is 90% enriched. Last November, Iran’s stockpile was 182.3 kilograms (401.9 pounds), and it was even less in August.
The IAEA says that about 42 kilograms of uranium at 60% can be turned into one atomic bomb if it gets enriched to 90%. Overall, Iran has 8,294.4 kilograms (18,286 pounds) of enriched uranium, which is up by 1,690.0 kilograms (3,725.8 pounds) since the last report.
Trump had earlier pulled the U.S. out of the nuclear deal with Iran and put sanctions back in place. He even ordered the killing of a key Iranian military leader, Qassem Soleimani.
Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, the IAEA leader, Rafael Mariano Grossi, warned that Iran could make “several” nuclear bombs if it wanted to. While U.S. intelligence believes Iran hasn’t started a weapons program yet, it is getting ready to create a nuclear device if it chooses.
Iran’s production of this uranium puts extra pressure on Trump, who has said he is open to talks with Iran while also increasing sanctions on their oil sales.
Even Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, hinted in August that talks with the U.S. could be possible but later stated that negotiating with America is not wise or honorable.
The IAEA also said that Iran hasn’t changed its decision to ban some experienced inspectors from monitoring its nuclear activities. The report shows that despite suggesting they might accept more inspectors, they still haven’t agreed to it.
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