INVC News
Geneva — : Iran has significantly expanded its uranium enrichment stockpile to 60%, nearing nuclear weapons-grade material, according to a confidential report released by the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This major escalation has triggered heightened international scrutiny and raised new concerns over regional security, as well as the future of nuclear negotiations with the United States.
IAEA: Uranium Stockpile Grows by 133.8 Kg in Three Months
By May 17, 2025, Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile reached 408.6 kilograms at 60% purity, up from 274.8 kilograms in February, the IAEA disclosed. The watchdog confirmed that the rapid increase of 133.8 kilograms places Iran dangerously close to acquiring the material required for a nuclear weapon. Weapon-grade uranium begins at 90% enrichment, and experts agree that reaching this level from 60% is technically straightforward and fast.
IAEA Chief Flags Deepening Concerns Over Nuclear Intentions
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has once again voiced strong concerns, stating that “Iran is the only country enriching uranium to such high levels without an active nuclear weapons program.” The agency is calling for immediate transparency and full cooperation from Tehran, as inspectors face continued limitations in access and monitoring.
60% Enrichment: A Red Line for Global Security
Enrichment at 60% purity represents a critical threshold that most nations do not cross unless actively pursuing nuclear weapons. Iran’s growing inventory of highly enriched uranium reduces the “breakout time” — the duration needed to produce a nuclear bomb if the regime decided to proceed. The current stockpile is believed to be enough to produce multiple nuclear warheads if enriched further to 90%.
Iran Rejects Speculation of Imminent US Deal
Iranian officials dismissed reports of any near-term breakthrough with Washington, stating that Tehran will only agree to a deal if all economic sanctions are lifted and the country’s nuclear activities remain uninterrupted. Iranian authorities reiterated their position that the nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes, although the enrichment levels now raise doubt internationally.
Trump Advises Netanyahu to Delay Strike on Iran
As diplomatic tensions rise, US President Donald Trump confirmed that he has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to act hastily against Iran. Trump emphasized the importance of exhausting diplomatic channels, stating, “Iran doesn’t want to be bombed. They’d prefer an agreement.” He suggested that a peaceful resolution without conflict would benefit not just Iran and Israel, but the entire Middle East.
Global Powers Watching Iran’s Next Move Closely
The latest IAEA disclosure comes as intense negotiations between Iran and the US continue behind closed doors. Western nations and nuclear experts are warning that time is running out to prevent Iran from reaching weapons-grade capability, which could trigger a new era of instability in the Middle East.
Iran’s uranium enrichment spike to 60%—now at 408.6 kg—has drawn the world’s attention to what may become the defining nuclear standoff of the decade, with the IAEA, US, Israel, and global powers locked in a high-stakes effort to shape what comes next.
