IAEA: Iran Boosts 60% Uranium Enrichment at Fordow by Up to Eightfold

Dec 6, 2024, 04:21 PM

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned that Iran is dramatically increasing its capacity to enrich uranium to up to 60% purity at its underground Fordow facility, bringing it closer to weapons-grade levels. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told Reuters that Iran could increase its production rate of 60% enriched uranium by as much as seven or eight times the previous rate of 5-7 kg per month. Iran intends to feed uranium enriched up to 20% rather than the current 5% into two interconnected IR-6 centrifuge cascades at Fordow, further escalating concerns among Western nations. Reports indicate that Iran has the capability to produce more than 12 nuclear bombs if it enriches its uranium stockpiles. The United States and Germany have expressed serious concern, labeling Iran's actions as a grave escalatory step that undermines diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes over its nuclear program.