Iran has proposed capping its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a level near the 90% required for nuclear weapons, according to confidential reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) released on Tuesday.
This offer, however, comes with a condition: Western powers must halt their pursuit of a resolution against Iran at the ongoing IAEA Board of Governors’ meeting. The resolution concerns Iran’s lack of cooperation with the agency, and diplomats indicated that discussions to advance it are still ongoing.
Iran’s Preparatory Measures
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi discussed the proposal during his recent visit to Iran. A report noted, “On November 16, 2024, the agency confirmed that Iran had initiated preparatory measures to limit its enriched uranium stockpile.”
Iran has reportedly agreed to cap its 60% enriched uranium stockpile at approximately 185 kg, the amount recorded two days prior to the report. This quantity, if further enriched, could theoretically produce material for four nuclear weapons, based on IAEA benchmarks.
Despite this, Iran continues to deny any intentions of developing nuclear weapons.
Current Uranium Stockpile
The IAEA report highlighted a 17.6 kg increase in Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile since the last report, reaching 182.3 kg as of October 26. This makes Iran the only non-nuclear-weapon state enriching uranium to such high levels, raising global concerns.
Diplomatic Pressure Mounts
Diplomats emphasized that Western powers are pressing for a censure to encourage Iran’s compliance with international nuclear agreements and address the IAEA’s longstanding concerns over its activities.
Inspectors’ Return
In a separate report, Iran also expressed willingness to consider reinstating four experienced IAEA inspectors after barring many enrichment experts last year. The IAEA had previously described this action as a “serious blow” to its ability to monitor Iran’s nuclear program effectively.
This development signals a cautious step towards potential diplomatic progress, though much hinges on the outcomes of the IAEA Board of Governors’ meeting and Iran’s adherence to its commitments.
