Iran was on the cusp of creating a nuclear bomb, according to a report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The report indicates that just before an Israeli military strike on June 13th, Iran had increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to levels very close to weapons-grade. The IAEA, based in Vienna, reported that Iran possessed 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% as of June 13th. This represents an increase of approximately 32.3 kilograms compared to May. The agency’s assertion is significant because achieving a 90% enrichment level is necessary for producing nuclear weapons, with 60% enrichment being a mere step away. The report’s figures are derived from data provided by Iran, inspections conducted by the agency between May 17th and June 12th, and assessments based on past operations. The IAEA also noted that inspections at affected nuclear sites have not been fully restored following Israeli and US bombings in June. The only site inspected post-conflict was the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which operates with Russian technical assistance.
