Iran’s Nuclear Program: Close to Bomb Before Recent Military Actions, IAEA Finds

The IAEA has revealed that Iran was very close to producing a nuclear weapon before the recent attacks. The report indicates that, prior to the June 13th attack, Iran had accumulated a considerable amount of uranium enriched to nearly weapons-grade levels. According to the report from the Vienna-based IAEA, Iran had 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% as of June 13th. This shows an increase of about 32.3 kilograms since May. The agency’s claim is significant because 90% enrichment is required for a nuclear weapon, and 60% enrichment is a short step away. The data underpinning the IAEA’s report is derived from information provided by Iran, inspections conducted between May 17 and June 12, and assessments based on previous activities. The IAEA notes that investigations at the affected nuclear sites have not yet been reinstated since the bombings in June. The Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant was the only site inspected after the conflict, and it operates using Russian technical assistance. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi has called for the immediate establishment of technical arrangements to fully restore inspections, noting that Iran’s lack of cooperation in the aftermath is concerning.