Iran has declared it can enrich uranium to weapons-grade levels “if needed,” amid mounting tension, suspended inspections, and the aftermath of U.S. airstrikes on nuclear infrastructure.
At a Glance
- Iran claims technical readiness to enrich uranium to 90%, the threshold for nuclear weapons.
- Tehran’s statement follows U.S. and Israeli strikes on Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan in June.
- The IAEA confirms Iran holds 408 kg of uranium enriched up to 60%.
- Iran has suspended all cooperation with international nuclear inspectors.
- U.S. intelligence estimates Iran could reach bomb-grade uranium within a week if it chose to.
Enrichment Threat Escalates After Strikes
In a chilling escalation, Iranian officials told Newsweek they are prepared to begin enriching uranium to weapons-grade concentrations “if needed,” marking the boldest nuclear posture since the 2015 accord collapsed. This comes just weeks after coordinated airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel targeted major Iranian nuclear facilities, including Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, in an attempt to curtail enrichment capabilities.
Iran responded by suspending cooperation with the IAEA, effectively blocking international oversight at its most sensitive sites. Analysts now warn the absence of inspectors drastically increases the risk of an unmonitored breakout.
Watch a report: Tehran signals bomb-grade enrichment readiness
https://www.newsweek.com/iran-ready-enrich-uranium-bomb-grade-levels-we-can-do-that-2093390
Closer Than Ever to a Nuclear Threshold
The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed Iran is stockpiling uranium enriched up to 60% purity—just short of the 90% required for a nuclear weapon. U.S. officials estimate that, if Tehran made the decision, it could achieve weapons-grade uranium in under a week. However, converting that material into a deliverable weapon would likely still require months, according to independent defense analysts.
Meanwhile, satellite imagery reveals renewed activity at Iran’s Fordow site, raising concerns that Tehran may be hardening its infrastructure underground to withstand future attacks.
Why It Matters
Iran’s open declaration—“we can do that”—has changed the diplomatic equation. With IAEA inspectors out and enrichment ongoing, the chances of a covert breakout are now higher than at any point in the last decade. And despite recent U.S. strikes, CIA sources suggest Iran’s nuclear timeline has only been delayed—not dismantled—by a matter of months.
The clock is ticking. Tehran’s posture signals more than defiance—it suggests a calculated readiness to weaponize if cornered. For global powers, the message is clear: Iran’s nuclear red line may already be behind them.
