Iran has escalated its nuclear program by activating a significant number of advanced centrifuges, according to state media. These centrifuges are used to enrich uranium, a process that can potentially lead to the development of nuclear weapons, although Iran denies any intention of building such weapons.
The move follows criticism from the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for Iran’s insufficient cooperation in nuclear oversight. Iranian officials claim the action aligns with the country’s peaceful energy goals and national interests.
The IAEA recently passed a resolution urging Iran to enhance its cooperation and transparency, emphasizing the need to verify that nuclear material is not diverted for unauthorized use. The resolution also mandates a detailed review of Iran’s potential undeclared nuclear activities and sites.
This decision follows longstanding disputes between the IAEA and Iran, including the discovery of uranium traces at undisclosed locations. Iranian officials have dismissed the resolution as politically driven and influenced by Western powers, particularly the US and European allies.
Iran Activates Advanced Centrifuges, Heightening Tensions Over Nuclear Program and Global Oversight
In response, Iran has expressed dissatisfaction with the resolution but stated that it will maintain existing technical cooperation with the IAEA. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has previously warned that Iran possesses enough highly enriched uranium to manufacture several nuclear weapons if it chooses. Furthermore, the IAEA has admitted challenges in monitoring Iran’s nuclear activities, fueling concerns over possible secretive enrichment efforts.
This development reflects the broader geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Critics, such as Israel’s Defense Minister Gideon Sa’ar, view the IAEA resolution as a crucial measure to curb Iran’s nuclear progress. Meanwhile, Iran’s insistence on peaceful intentions contrasts sharply with international fears of a potential nuclear arms race. The strained relationship highlights the difficulties in enforcing global nuclear agreements and restoring trust in Iran’s commitments.
Iran’s decision also illustrates the consequences of the unraveling 2015 nuclear deal, which restricted the country’s nuclear capabilities. After the US withdrew from the agreement in 2018 under then-President Donald Trump, reimposing economic sanctions, Iran progressively breached the deal by deploying advanced centrifuges and scaling back commitments. US officials now warn that Iran’s breakout time to acquire weapons-grade uranium is alarmingly short, making the need for diplomatic solutions increasingly urgent.
