On March 6, the United States strongly condemned the recent nuclear actions of the Iranian regime. In a statement delivered at the IAEA’s Board of Governors meeting, U.S. Ambassador Laura Holgate demanded that Iran:
- Dilute all its uranium enriched to 60%. The statement emphasized that no other country with peaceful nuclear intentions enriches uranium to this level.
- Completely halt the production of 60% enriched uranium. The U.S. highlighted that this action violates the behavior of non-nuclear signatories to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).
IAEA Report on Iran’s Uranium Stockpile
While a recent IAEA report noted a slight decrease (6.8 kg) in Iran’s 60% enriched uranium reserves since November 2023, its total enriched uranium stockpile continues to grow. The report reveals that Iran still possesses enough 60% enriched uranium to potentially fuel two nuclear warheads, according to IAEA definitions.
Iran’s Stance and International Concerns
The Iranian regime maintains its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes, even to high levels. However, Western nations, including the U.S., reject this claim, asserting there is no credible justification for such high enrichment for civilian use.
Furthermore, ten U.S. Senators urged the Biden administration to condemn Iran’s enrichment program at the IAEA meeting, reflecting broader concerns.
Limited IAEA Access and Cooperation
The IAEA Director General, Rafael Grossi, expressed his disappointment that Iran has not reversed its decision to restrict access to several experienced inspectors. This action, coupled with Iran’s withdrawal from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Agreement, has significantly limited the agency’s ability to perform effective verification activities.
The U.S. government called Iran’s cooperation with the IAEA “unacceptable,” highlighting the impact of restricting access to experienced inspectors on the agency’s verification capabilities. Additionally, the statement criticized Iran’s unannounced changes to centrifuge cascades at Fordow, which violate its safeguards obligations.
