Iran experiences setback as two centrifuge facilities are damaged
In Iran, sites producing components for uranium-enriching centrifuges have suffered destruction, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Specifically, the TESA Karaj workshop and the Tehran Research Center have reportedly been affected by these attacks.
"IAEA has information that these centrifuge production sites in Iran have been targeted," the statement said.
Initially, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi reported damage to four buildings at the nuclear site in Isfahan. Moreover, following Israeli attacks in Natanz, underground halls housing uranium-enriching centrifuges were wiped out. Notably, radiological and chemical contamination was detected within the facility [1].
The damaged sites were under IAEA monitoring as part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. For the sake of brevity, JCPOA refers to this agreement.
Remarkably, Iran's uranium enrichment capacity remains substantial, possessing approximately 64,000 separative work units (swu) per year, with active centrifuge capacity around 50,000 swu/year [1]. The country has significantly increased its stockpile of low-enriched uranium (LEU), now standing at around 5,508.8 kg of uranium mass compared to previous 3,655 kg [1].
Focusing on producing uranium enriched to 60 percent, well beyond typical reactor fuel requirements, is of major concern, as it raises proliferation concerns [1]. Regarding Iran’s nuclear facilities such as the Arak Heavy Water Reactor, no significant new developments have been observed [1].
The IAEA's role in monitoring Iran’s nuclear program has been notably impacted. Since February 2021, Iran has suspended implementing the Additional Protocol and other enhanced monitoring arrangements under the JCPOA, which has significantly hampered the IAEA’s ability to conduct comprehensive inspections or receive timely declarations [1].
Consequently, the IAEA's capacity to verify nuclear-related activities and identify any diversion of nuclear materials or technology to undeclared locations has been greatly diminished [1]. In essence, while Iran's uranium enrichment continues at significant levels, the IAEA's monitoring and verification capabilities are significantly compromised due to Iran's non-cooperation and the suspension of essential transparency measures.
"The IAEA is investigating potential attacks on Iran's uranium centrifuge production sites, beyond the incidents at Isfahan and Natanz, given the recent damage reported at the TESA Karaj workshop and the Tehran Research Center, as per their statements."
"Amidst political tensions and war-and-conflicts, the general news landscape is filled with discussions surrounding Iran's nuclear capacity and the diminished monitoring abilities of the International Atomic Energy Agency, due to Iran's non-cooperation and the suspension of essential transparency measures."
