Iran Increases Enriched Uranium Reserves,Nearing Weapons-Grade

Updated May 31,2025
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Iran has expanded⁢ its enriched uranium stockpile,bringing it closer too weapons-grade levels,according to a confidential United Nations nuclear watchdog report.The report urges Tehran to cooperate with investigations and reverse its course.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report, reviewed by The Associated Press, revealed that as of ⁤May 17, Iran possessed 408.6 kilograms (900.8 pounds) of uranium enriched up ‍to 60%. This marks ⁣a 133.8-kilogram (294.9 pounds) increase since the IAEA’s previous ⁢report in February, highlighting concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and the push for a nuclear agreement.

The enriched uranium is a short technical step away from the 90% purity required for weapons. Rafael ‍Mariano Grossi, IAEA director general, has repeatedly stated that ⁣Iran remains the only non-nuclear weapon state enriching uranium to this degree.

Grossi reiterated his urgent call⁣ for Iran to⁢ fully cooperate with the agency.

Iranian officials have downplayed the likelihood of an imminent nuclear agreement with the united States, insisting that any accord must include a ‍complete lifting of sanctions and the ⁣continuation of the country’s nuclear⁣ program.

‍ “He reiterates his urgent call to Iran to cooperate full and effectively with his agency,” Grossi said.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump⁢ claimed he had asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to⁣ refrain from⁣ taking action against Iran, allowing the White House more time ⁤to pursue a new nuclear agreement with Tehran. Trump expressed optimism that a deal could be reached soon, stating that Iranian⁢ leaders would prefer an agreement⁤ to military ‍action.

Trump added that he cautioned Netanyahu against preemptive strikes on ‍Iranian nuclear facilities ⁢while negotiations are ongoing, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy in addressing the nuclear security situation.

What’s next

The IAEA is expected to continue monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities, and further reports will likely assess the impact of ongoing negotiations on Iran’s enrichment levels and cooperation with international oversight.