IAEA Chief Warns Iran May Resume Uranium Enrichment Soon

In a recent statement, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), indicated that Iran could restart its uranium enrichment program within months, despite recent attacks on its nuclear facilities. This revelation comes in the wake of a series of military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel targeting Iranian nuclear sites.

On June 28, 2025, Grossi highlighted that Iran possesses the capability to initiate the production of enriched uranium again, stating, "They can have, you know, in a matter of months, I would say, a few cascades of centrifuges spinning and producing enriched uranium, or less than that." This assertion raises significant concerns regarding nuclear proliferation in the region, especially given the backdrop of heightened tensions between Iran and both the U.S. and Israel.

The Iranian government has consistently denied intentions to develop a nuclear weapon, claiming its nuclear program is peaceful. However, the recent escalation of military actions against its facilities has prompted fears that these claims may not reflect the true nature of Iran's nuclear ambitions. The damage inflicted on Iran's nuclear infrastructure has been characterized by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as "serious," although specifics remain undisclosed. U.S. President Donald Trump previously asserted that these attacks had set back Iran's nuclear capabilities by decades, a claim Grossi now seems to challenge.

The IAEA's director general expressed uncertainty regarding the location of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, estimated at approximately 408.6 kilograms (900 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60%—a level above civilian use but below weapons grade. Grossi noted, "We don't know where this material could be. Some could have been destroyed as part of the attack, but some could have been moved. So there has to be at some point a clarification."

Iranian lawmakers have responded to the situation by voting to suspend cooperation with the IAEA, rejecting Grossi's request for access to the damaged sites, particularly the Fordo facility, which is critical for uranium enrichment. Grossi emphasized the importance of verifying the status of Iran's nuclear program, stating, "We need to be in a position to ascertain, to confirm what is there, and where is it and what happened."

In a separate interview, Trump expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood that Iran could have relocated its uranium stockpile before the attacks, suggesting the logistical challenges involved. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated Washington's support for the IAEA's verification efforts, commending Grossi and his agency for their professionalism amid escalating tensions.

The implications of Iran's potential resumption of uranium enrichment are far-reaching, raising questions about the stability of the Middle East and the effectiveness of international treaties aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation. As the situation evolves, the global community remains watchful, aware that any miscalculation could lead to further conflict in an already volatile region.