IAEA Reveals Iran’s Proposal to Cap Uranium Enrichment at 60% Purity
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) revealed on Tuesday that Iran has proposed limiting its stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% purity—just below the 90% required for weapons-grade material. This move comes as a conditional offer, urging Western nations to drop their resolution against Iran at this week’s IAEA Board of Governors meeting.
Iran’s Conditional Offer
The IAEA’s confidential reports stated that during IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi’s visit to Iran, discussions centered on Iran’s willingness to halt further accumulation of uranium enriched to 60% U-235. The agency confirmed that Iran has initiated preparatory steps to cap its stockpile at approximately 185 kg, the amount verified as of November 16, 2024.
This quantity is sufficient, if further enriched, to produce material for four nuclear weapons based on IAEA benchmarks. However, Iran has consistently denied any intention to develop nuclear weapons.
Current Uranium Stockpile
The report highlighted that as of October 26, 2024, Iran’s stockpile of 60%-enriched uranium had risen to 182.3 kg, reflecting an increase of 17.6 kg since the previous update. Iran remains the only non-nuclear-armed state enriching uranium to such a high level.
Western Push for Resolution
Diplomats explained that Western nations are advocating for a resolution to increase diplomatic pressure on Iran to address IAEA concerns and ensure compliance.
Experienced Inspectors to Return
In a related development, Iran has agreed to consider reinstating four experienced IAEA inspectors. These experts, specializing in enrichment monitoring, were previously barred in a move described by the IAEA as a severe hindrance to its oversight capabilities in Iran.
This offer marks a potential step towards addressing international concerns over Iran’s nuclear activities while maintaining diplomatic dialogue to resolve long-standing issues.
