"Iran increases enriched uranium reserves and raises international alarms."

In a global context marked by geopolitical tensions and concerns about nuclear proliferation, the latest information from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reveals a troubling increase in enriched uranium reserves by Iran. Over a three-month period, the country has maintained its production of uranium enriched to 60%, reaching a total of 164.7 kilograms of this material, which represents a 16% increase since May. This figure approaches the levels that would be necessary for the development of nuclear weapons, raising alarms in the international community. The report, which remains confidential, details that during the period between May and August, Iranian technicians not only produced uranium at 60%, but also enriched 62.6 kilograms at 20%. This activity has been made possible by diluting a significant portion of their uranium enriched to 2%. However, the decrease in the stocks of uranium at 2% is notable, falling by nearly 36% and leaving Iran with 1,651 kilograms of this material. Since the nuclear agreement was signed in 2015, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Iran has repeatedly violated the established limits. According to this agreement, enriched uranium reserves should not exceed 300 kilograms. Nevertheless, the IAEA report indicates that Iran's total enriched uranium stocks have reached 5,751.8 kilograms, an alarming figure that calls into question the viability of effective control over Iran's nuclear program. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has expressed his concern over this accumulation of uranium, pointing out that Iran is the only non-nuclear-armed state in the world pursuing this type of enrichment. This development not only raises greater concerns about the possibility of Iran developing a nuclear weapon, but also complicates security dynamics in the Middle East. Nuclear non-proliferation experts warn that while Iran is currently enriching its uranium to 60%, the process of moving from 60% to 90%—necessary for the manufacture of atomic bombs—is relatively simpler than reaching 60% from 2%. This suggests that Iran may be closer to achieving the capability to develop a nuclear weapon than previously estimated. Amid this escalation of nuclear tensions, Iran's political stance is also taking shape. Recently, the Iranian government has stated that it will support any agreement that the militant group Hamas accepts in negotiations with Israel. This declaration underscores Iran's willingness to engage in Middle Eastern politics and its desire to maintain influence in the region while continuing its nuclear program. Meanwhile, the IAEA has also noted a lack of cooperation from Iran regarding information on radioactive traces at undeclared nuclear facilities. This has led to a situation where the verification and oversight efforts by international inspectors are severely affected. The difficulty of access and Iran's tendency to impose vetoes against certain inspectors only complicate the situation further. With the upcoming meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors scheduled for September 9, it is likely that concerns about Iran's uranium enrichment and lack of transparency will be central topics of discussion. The international community is watching closely, aware that the future of the nuclear agreement and stability in the region depend on Iran's willingness to adhere to its commitments. This scenario creates an atmosphere of uncertainty in an already volatile context. The accumulation of enriched uranium and Iran's lack of cooperation with the IAEA could have repercussions not only for the Persian country but also for global security. The need for constructive dialogue and effective measures to address nuclear proliferation is more urgent than ever.