The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief, Rafael Grossi, has warned that Iran could restart uranium enrichment within months, despite significant damage to its nuclear facilities from recent US and Israeli strikes. Grossi’s assessment, given in an interview with CBS News, highlights Iran’s preserved industrial and technological capabilities, which would enable it to reinstall several cascades of centrifuges and resume producing enriched uranium. The IAEA chief emphasized that while some facilities have been heavily damaged, others remain operational, allowing Iran to potentially revive its nuclear program.
Grossi’s concerns are further fueled by the uncertainty surrounding Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60%, which is estimated to be around 408.6 kilograms. The IAEA is unsure whether the stockpile was relocated before the attacks or partially destroyed. Grossi stressed the importance of resuming inspection work to clarify Iran’s nuclear status, stating that “we need to be in a position to ascertain and to confirm what is there, and where it is, and what happened”.
The potential revival of Iran’s nuclear program has significant implications for global security and diplomacy. The IAEA’s ongoing efforts to monitor and verify Iran’s nuclear activities will be crucial in determining the country’s future nuclear capabilities. Grossi’s warning serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges involved in maintaining nuclear non-proliferation, particularly in regions with heightened tensions.
