New Dhaka Times: Desk Report
Due to the recent rapid advancements in Iran’s nuclear program, the United States has proposed renewed negotiations. The issue surfaced following a recent report by the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, which stated that Iran has increased its stockpile of 60% enriched uranium by nearly 50% over the past three months.
IAEA Report: Uranium at Bomb-Making Levels
According to the IAEA, Iran is currently stockpiling 408.6 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium, up from 274.8 kilograms in February. This level of uranium is considered a potential ingredient for nuclear weapons. Analysts suggest that this quantity of uranium could be used to produce at least 10 nuclear weapons.
Undeclared Activities at Secret Sites
The IAEA further noted that Iran has used nuclear materials at three undeclared locations: Lavisan-Shian, Varamin, and Turquzabad. This has raised suspicion and concern among international observers.
New U.S. Proposal
In this context, the United States has presented an official proposal to Iran, which includes the following points:
Uranium enrichment activities must be halted.
The stockpiled uranium will be transferred to another country.
Nuclear fuel for Iran’s electricity production and research will be supplied through a foreign consortium.
The main goal of this proposal is to ensure that Iran uses nuclear power only for peaceful purposes and to eliminate any potential for weapon development.
Iran’s Response
However, Iran has rejected the proposal, claiming that the use of nuclear energy is their sovereign right and is solely for peaceful research and power generation. Iran has also labeled the IAEA report as “politically motivated.”
International Reactions
Countries including Israel and the European Union are closely monitoring the situation, and there are indications that new sanctions may be proposed at the United Nations.
Source: The New York Times, 1 June 2025