By Elliot Hartman | The Maple Times
Iran is only months away from having the capability to produce weapons-grade uranium, according to a stark warning from Rafael Grossi, Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Speaking to The Guardian on June 29, Grossi said there is no current indication that Iran has made a political decision to build a nuclear bomb—but emphasized that the technical ability is already in place. “It is no longer a question of capacity. It is a matter of political will,” he stated.
Why This Matters
Iran currently holds enough uranium enriched up to 60% purity—dangerously close to the 90% threshold required for a nuclear weapon. Grossi noted that within a few months, Iran could accumulate enough material for at least one weapon if it chose to do so.
This development raises urgent questions about Iran’s compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the 2015 nuclear deal, which has been in a state of collapse since the U.S. withdrawal in 2018.
Diplomatic Stalemate
Tensions have escalated amid a breakdown in diplomatic engagement. Iran has severely restricted international inspections of its nuclear facilities since 2021, leaving the IAEA with limited visibility into its activities. Grossi’s warning may signal an effort to re-energize global diplomatic efforts before conditions deteriorate further.
Western nations have called for renewed talks, but with global powers like Russia and China supporting Iran’s energy and defense sectors, coordinated international pressure is increasingly complex.
What Comes Next?
The international community is watching closely. Without new diplomatic breakthroughs or verified inspections, Iran’s nuclear timeline may shorten significantly. “The window for diplomacy is narrowing,” Grossi said.
Whether the world can rally around a unified strategy or whether it faces a new nuclear flashpoint—remains to be seen.
