Nuclear inspectors in Iran express concerns over increased uranium production activities
The Iranian nuclear program has escalated concerns as the country has significantly increased its production of near-weapon-grade uranium, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). As per IAEA reports in late May and early June 2025, Iran now holds nearly 409 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60 percent, a 49 percent increase since February. Some diplomatic sources suggest that approximately 42 kilograms of this uranium could be enough for a nuclear weapon if further enriched to 90 percent.
The IAEA has expressed "serious concern" over Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium, despite Tehran's consistent denial of pursuing nuclear weapons. Previously, Israel had demanded consequences, while the organization found that Iran had hidden nuclear activities and materials at three facilities from the IAEA in the past, obstructing investigations.
The development could serve as a basis for the IAEA's Board of Governors to involve the UN Security Council in the future due to Iran's violations of inspection agreements with the IAEA. Germany, the UK, and France have raised the possibility of renewed UN sanctions in this context.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has seen his warnings about Iranian nuclear weapons confirmed, calling the Iranian nuclear program not for peace. He believes that the international community should now act and stop Iran from completing its nuclear weapons program, pointing out that the level of uranium enrichment in Iran now exists in countries actively seeking nuclear weapons and for which there is no civilian justification.
The ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran aim to significantly curtail Iran's nuclear program due to fears that the Islamic Republic could develop nuclear weapons. Since April, the U.S. has been negotiating with Iran, hoping to reignite the Vienna nuclear deal that was abandoned by former President Trump in 2018. Tehran ceased adhering to the agreement following Trump's withdrawal.
In light of the IAEA report, tensions between Israel and Iran have been rising, with speculations of possible Israeli preparations for an attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he warned Netanjahu against taking measures that could disrupt talks with Iran about its nuclear program.
- The escalating Iranian nuclear program, a source of global concern, has sparked discussions about the international community's policy in response to potential violations of non-proliferation agreements, particularly in terms of free movement of workers for scientific research and general-news reporting on medical-conditions related to the program.
- As the Iranian nuclear issue continues to dominate political headlines, there are growing calls for the protection of freedom of movement, not just for scientists and diplomats, but also for the free flow of information, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of this complex situation and promote peaceful resolution through dialogue, rather than violent actions.
