Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency: Iran's Uranium Enrichment Rate Has Slowed Down Slightly

The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated that the Islamic Republic is still increasing its stockpile of 60% enriched uranium, but this increase, which began right after Israel's military action in Gaza, has now slightly decreased. Rafael Grossi, in an interview with The New York Times, mentioned that 'the Islamic Republic can now quickly reach the level required for nuclear weapon production' and added, 'the slowdown in uranium enrichment in Iran is likely a sign of Tehran's efforts to reduce confrontation with the United States following recent events in the Middle East.' The IAEA Director General had also stated on January 18 that the Islamic Republic has limited its cooperation with the Agency and has taken it 'hostage' in its disputes with Western countries. On January 16, Grossi also mentioned in an interview with the English-language newspaper 'The National' published in Abu Dhabi that Iran is 'rapidly' advancing its uranium enrichment program and continues to obstruct the Agency's inspections. According to a report on Thursday, February 1, by The New York Times, it is unclear exactly when the reduction in uranium production in Iran began, but it seems Tehran is concerned that its nuclear program could become a major military target for the United States, which is why Iranian officials have carefully adjusted their enrichment activities to remain slightly below the threshold of weaponizable material. Two months ago, the IAEA reported that the Islamic Republic possesses 128 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium. On December 28, the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom condemned the increase in the speed and amount of uranium enriched to 60% by Iran in a joint statement. They called for an immediate halt to these actions and urged Iran to de-escalate its nuclear program, emphasizing that Iran's full cooperation with the IAEA is essential for ensuring the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program.