New Agency Report: Iran's 60% Enriched Uranium Reserves Exceed 142 Kilograms

A confidential report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Monday indicated an increase in Iran's enriched uranium reserves, nearing the levels required for nuclear weapon production. According to the Associated Press, the Islamic Republic's reserves of 60% enriched uranium have risen by 20.6 kilograms since the last quarterly report released in March, surpassing 142 kilograms. Uranium enriched to 60% is only a short technical step away from the 90% enrichment needed for nuclear weapons. Iran is the only non-nuclear state in the world producing 60% enriched uranium. According to the agency's definition, Iran needs at least 42 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium to produce one nuclear bomb. In other words, assuming the agency's figures are accurate, the Islamic Republic currently possesses enough enriched uranium to produce three nuclear bombs. The latest report shows that Iran's total enriched uranium stockpile has increased by 675.8 kilograms since the last quarterly report, now reaching 6201.3 kilograms. The IAEA's latest report also accused the Islamic Republic of not reevaluating its decision from last September to bar the most experienced nuclear inspectors from monitoring its nuclear program, and that it expects Iran to take such action within the framework of ongoing bilateral consultations. The agency added that the deaths of Ebrahim Raisi and Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in a helicopter crash have caused a delay in negotiations between this UN-affiliated body and the Islamic Republic regarding improved cooperation. The report indicates that the Islamic Republic proposed in a letter dated May 22 (two days after the fatal helicopter crash carrying Raisi) that discussions about cooperation between the agency and the government continue 'at a mutually agreed appropriate date.' The Islamic Republic claims its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes. However, Rafael Grossi, the IAEA Director General, has warned that the Islamic Republic has enough enriched uranium to produce 'several' nuclear bombs. The Biden administration, like previous U.S. administrations, has repeatedly stated it will prevent the Islamic Republic from acquiring nuclear weapons. Nevertheless, Reuters reported, citing diplomatic sources, that the Biden administration is not seeking a new resolution against the Islamic Republic at next week's IAEA Board of Governors meeting, contrary to its European allies. Voice of America has contacted U.S. government officials and will publish their response regarding this report as soon as it is received. Warning from the IAEA Director General to the Islamic Republic: Stop threatening to 'change nuclear policy.' Senior advisor to Khamenei: If the 'existence' of the Islamic Republic is threatened, we will change our 'military and nuclear doctrine.' Grossi in Isfahan: The Islamic Republic should take 'real, tangible, and practical' steps. The Islamic Republic claims negotiations with Grossi have been 'positive'; Reuters, citing diplomats, warns to be cautious of 'empty promises.' Rafael Grossi: The Islamic Republic has significantly moved closer to building a nuclear bomb. Grossi: The Islamic Republic is increasing its nuclear capabilities; inspections are not being conducted adequately in scope and depth. The U.S. has warned the Iranian government about the continued 'obstruction' of cooperation with the agency. The European Troika has warned the Islamic Republic: Stop 'unauthorized' enrichment. The U.S. says the Islamic Republic must 'dilute' all of its 60% enriched uranium reserves. Grossi: Iran's enriched uranium reserves continue to increase.