Iran has denied a US media report of increased uranium enrichment as part of its controversial nuclear program. The Islamic Republic has not enriched uranium with a purity greater than 60 percent, national atomic energy agency spokesman Behrus Kamalwandi said, according to a report by state news agency IRNA.
The US news agency Bloomberg had already reported, citing diplomats, that the country had enriched uranium to 84%. A good 90% enriched uranium is needed for atomic bombs.
Nuclear deal is on hold
The Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) wrote on Twitter that it was aware of such reports. Authorities did not elaborate on the allegations.
The IAEA is aware of recent media reports relating to levels of uranium enrichment in Iran. General Manager @rafaelmgrossi states that the IAEA is discussing with Iran the results of the Agency’s recent verification activities and will inform the IAEA Board of Governors as appropriate. pic.twitter.com/4Aqdq01Xr5
— IAEA – International Atomic Energy Agency ⚛️ (@iaeaorg) February 19, 2023
In 2015, Iran committed to curbing its nuclear program as part of an international agreement. In return, sanctions were lifted. After the United States withdrew from the pact under President Donald Trump, Tehran gradually rolled back restrictions. Efforts to restore the nuclear pact are stalling.