Global Concerns Over Iran's Nuclear Program; Eslami: We Have Achieved Heavy Water Derivatives

Amid global concerns over the nuclear activities of the Islamic Republic, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization announced that Iran has 'recently' achieved 'heavy water derivatives' and also has 'export capabilities.' Mohammad Eslami claimed on Tuesday, August 8, that the Islamic Republic is working on 'heavy water derivatives' to pursue 'a combination of laser and biotechnology' for 'deuterated drugs.' The Islamic Republic of Iran claims that it pursues its nuclear program for peaceful purposes, yet simultaneously refuses full oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the IAEA, stated on June 30 that the continuation of the Islamic Republic's enrichment activities has increased concerns, noting in an interview with France 24 that Iran's enriched uranium reserves have increased by 25% in the past three months despite an agreement between the Islamic Republic and the Agency, and that newly installed equipment at Iran's nuclear facilities does not significantly aid the Agency's oversight missions due to limitations. Furthermore, in recent days, the Associated Press reported that since the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA, the Islamic Republic has been advancing its nuclear program and has openly exceeded the limitations of the agreement regarding enrichment and uranium reserves, having built a new underground nuclear facility that is likely impervious to U.S. weaponry. According to this report, experts say that if Iran wishes, it can now produce a nuclear bomb. Although a U.S. intelligence assessment released in July states that Iran is not currently seeking nuclear weapons, it has increased activities that could aid in their development. Additionally, Japan has expressed concern over Iran's uranium enrichment program and drone shipments to Russia. U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized last month during a meeting with Israeli counterpart Isaac Herzog that we will never allow the Islamic Republic to acquire nuclear weapons. Netanyahu once again called for a 'credible military threat' against the Islamic Republic. The U.S. Navy stated that the Islamic Republic is undoubtedly the main threat and source of instability in the region. The Sunday Times reported that Britain considers the IRGC to be the 'greatest threat' to its security. A report from the Jewish Chronicle highlighted the IRGC's influence in the 'heart of Britain,' with Jason Brodsky stating that the IRGC should be recognized as 'terrorist.' The complete withdrawal of the Chinese from the 'Yadavaran' oil field was due to U.S. sanctions. The Associated Press noted that the increased U.S. presence in the Persian Gulf indicates a deepening rift with the Islamic Republic. Israel has given a green light to Saudi Arabia, stating that it has no problem with uranium enrichment in Saudi Arabia.