Where Is Iran’s Enriched Uranium?

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised concerns about the whereabouts of a significant portion of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. Rafael Grossi, the IAEA director-general, indicated that approximately half of Iran’s estimated 972 pounds of highly enriched uranium—around 440 pounds—is believed to remain at the Isfahan nuclear facility. This assessment contradicts previous claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who asserted that U.S. military strikes nearly a year ago had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Grossi revealed that on June 9, just days before a 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, 18 containers thought to hold enriched uranium were moved into a tunnel at Isfahan. Despite subsequent U.S. airstrikes targeting Isfahan and two other Iranian nuclear sites, satellite imagery suggests the uranium remains stored there. The material is reportedly enriched to about 60 percent purity, close to weapons-grade levels, raising proliferation concerns. The IAEA has not been able to conduct inspections at Isfahan since the June attacks, limiting its ability to verify the uranium’s status or confirm the integrity of its seals. Iran, a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), is obligated to allow IAEA inspections, but access has been restricted following the strikes. The ongoing lack of transparency complicates international efforts to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities amid heightened geopolitical tensions. The NPT’s five-year review is currently underway at the United Nations, underscoring the global stakes involved in ensuring compliance and preventing nuclear proliferation in the region. The situation highlights the challenges faced by the international community in verifying nuclear material in conflict zones and the persistent risks posed by Iran’s nuclear program. It also underscores the fragile nature of diplomatic and security arrangements aimed at curbing nuclear weapons development in the Middle East.