An unnamed Western diplomatic source stated on Saturday (December 7) that Iran is accelerating its development of uranium enrichment technology, nearing bomb-grade levels with potentially “extremely serious” consequences. This contradicts Tehran’s assertion of a commitment to serious nuclear negotiations.
The Western diplomatic source told Reuters, “Information reported by the Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency indicates that Iran’s ability to produce 60% enriched uranium has significantly improved, creating a very serious situation.”
The source emphasized, “These actions not only lack any credible civilian justification, but instead, if Iran chooses to proceed in this manner, it could directly advance its military nuclear program, contradicting Iran’s statements about willingness to engage in credible negotiations.”
For years, Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons.
Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, told Reuters on Friday that Iran is rapidly increasing its uranium enrichment pace, aiming for a purity of 60% to approach the approximately 90% required for weapons-grade level.
The International Atomic Energy Agency subsequently confirmed in a confidential report to member states that Iran is accelerating its uranium enrichment development, processing raw materials that could be used both for civilian nuclear energy production and for manufacturing nuclear weapons.
(Adapted from Reuters)