Iran’s Uranium Stockpile Grows, Raising Nuclear Weapon Fears

Why in the News?

A UN report reveals that Iran has accumulated 275 kg of 60% enriched uranium, a 50% increase in 15 weeks, bringing it closer to weapons-grade levels. This escalation heightens global concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and potential diplomatic fallout.

Iran’s Uranium Stockpile Grows, Raising Nuclear Weapon Fears

About Increased Uranium Enrichment:

  • Iran has sharply increased its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, reaching 275 kg of 60% enriched uranium as of February 8—a 50% increase in just 15 weeks.
  • This level of enrichment is close to weapons-grade (90%), and experts warn that Iran could produce nuclear weapons within months.
  • Iran has been expanding its uranium enrichment since 2021, despite international pressure.

International Reactions & Diplomatic Challenges:

  • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed serious concerns, as Iran is the only non-nuclear-weapon state producing such material.
  • The U.S. and European countries have urged negotiations, but Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has rejected talks under pressure.
  • Israel has warned of military action if Iran moves toward nuclear weapons, while France and U.S. intelligence reports highlight the growing risk.

Sanctions & Geopolitical Impact:

  • The U.S. has tightened sanctions, particularly targeting Iran’s oil sales to China and its nuclear-linked entities.
  • European nations may reimpose sanctions by October 2025, which could lead Iran to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), similar to North Korea.
  • Russia’s role remains uncertain, with discussions between Russian, Iranian, and U.S. officials potentially influencing the situation.