Iran Increases Uranium Stockpile Amid International Concerns

Iran has expanded its uranium stockpile enriched to near weapons-grade levels, defying international mandates, a UN nuclear watchdog report revealed. As of August 17, Iran accumulated 164.7 kg of uranium enriched up to 60%, growing by 22.6 kg since May. Iran continues to restrict IAEA inspector access and disrupts surveillance.

Iran has ramped up its stockpile of uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels, in defiance of international demands, according to a confidential report by the United Nations' nuclear watchdog.

The International Atomic Energy Agency report, seen by The Associated Press, revealed that as of August 17, Iran amassed 164.7 kilograms (363.1 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60 percent purity. This marks an increase of 22.6 kilograms (49.8 pounds) since the IAEA's last report in May.

Uranium enriched up to 60 percent is just a technical short step from weapons-grade 90 percent purity. The IAEA report also indicates that Tehran has not reconsidered its decision from September 2023 to ban the most experienced nuclear inspectors from monitoring its nuclear program and continues to disrupt IAEA surveillance cameras.

Additionally, the report states that Iran has not yet provided answers to the nuclear watchdog's years-long investigation regarding the origin and current location of man-made uranium particles discovered at two undeclared sites.

(With inputs from agencies.)