In a significant development that could potentially de-escalate tensions between Iran and the United States, a confidential report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) revealed that Iran has slowed down its enrichment of uranium to nearly weapons-grade levels. The report comes amid ongoing negotiations between the two nations concerning a prisoner exchange and the release of Iranian assets frozen in South Korea.
Iran's decision to curtail its uranium enrichment program appears to be a calculated move aimed at reducing hostilities with the United States, following years of tension since the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.
As per the IAEA report, as of the most recent count, Iran possesses 121.6 kilograms (268 pounds) of uranium enriched up to 60% purity. This represents a notably slower growth rate compared to earlier assessments. In May, a previous IAEA report indicated that Iran had slightly over 114 kilograms (250 pounds) of 60% enriched uranium, and in February, the stockpile stood at 87.5 kilograms (192 pounds).
Uranium enriched to 60% purity is considered to be just a short technical step away from reaching the weapons-grade level of 90%. While Iran has consistently asserted that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful, the director-general of the IAEA has cautioned that Tehran now possesses enough enriched uranium to potentially produce "several" nuclear weapons if it decides to pursue such a path.
This development has garnered international attention and raised hopes of diplomatic progress in resolving the longstanding issues surrounding Iran's nuclear program. Negotiations between Iran and the United States have been ongoing, with both sides expressing cautious optimism about reaching an agreement that could pave the way for the lifting of sanctions and a return to compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal.
Iran's decision to slow down uranium enrichment is perceived as a constructive gesture towards rebuilding trust and fostering peaceful dialogue in the region. It provides an opportunity for all parties involved to engage in substantive negotiations and find common ground, ultimately working towards a more stable and secure future for the Middle East.
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