Where is Iran's enriched uranium? New information from the IAEA
The IAEA reports that Iran has stored over 200 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium in a tunnel complex beneath the Isfahan nuclear facility, which has remained largely intact despite past military strikes.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has revealed that Iran is holding over 200 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium in a deep tunnel complex located under the Isfahan nuclear facility, as stated by IAEA Director Rafael Grossi during a press conference in Paris. This finding was reported by the Reuters news agency. Grossi pointed out that the Isfahan facility was the only site in Iran's nuclear program that did not suffer significant damage during the bombing campaign known as the Twelve Day War, which involved joint strikes by Israel and the United States last June.
According to Grossi, an ongoing assessment suggests that the uranium material is still located in the tunnel complex, which reportedly lacks vertical ventilation shafts that could facilitate precision bombing of targets deep underground. This confirmation from the IAEA contributes to a long-standing suspicion among diplomats that Isfahan houses a stock of enriched uranium, although the specific figure of 200 kilograms marks new information in this context. Prior to the June bombings, it was estimated that Iran had approximately 440.9 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium.
The implications of this information are significant, given the international concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear capabilities. The discovery reinforces the necessity for close monitoring of Iran's nuclear program, especially in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. As the situation evolves, this update from the IAEA could influence diplomatic negotiations and efforts to ensure nuclear non-proliferation in the area.