Iran is quadrupling its production of near-bomb-grade uranium, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Director General Rafael M. Grossi warned that this move could intensify challenges facing President-elect Donald Trump’s administration but also presents an opportunity for new diplomacy with the West.
The IAEA reported a significant increase in monthly production of 60% enriched uranium from nine kilograms to 40 kilograms, just shy of the levels needed to produce a bomb. Grossi stated that Iran is now “quadrupling its production” and urged more engagement and diplomacy.
This development comes as Iran appears weaker than ever, with Israeli attacks on Hamas and Hezbollah having crushed their tunnel systems and missile capabilities. The country has also evacuated military commanders from Syria and suffered damaged air defenses around its nuclear sites after missile strikes on Israel.
Analysts ponder whether Iran will pursue a nuclear breakout or seek new negotiations with the US under Trump’s administration. While some believe Iran is seeking to protect itself against Israeli or joint US attacks, others think it may be setting the stage for talks that could lead to a more secure and long-lasting deal than the one negotiated by President Obama.
Grossi has been working to set the stage for these negotiations, visiting Iran to convince leaders to fully comply with inspection obligations. However, his efforts have failed so far. The IAEA’s report suggests that Iranian production of near-bomb-grade uranium is accelerating, but it would still take several months to produce a weapon.
With Trump taking office on January 20, the possibility of new diplomatic talks between Iran and the US has increased. Grossi’s comments, first reported by Reuters, have sparked fresh hopes for engagement with Iran, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/06/us/politics/iran-nuclear-fuel.html