Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Image: AP.
(The Post News)- Iran has stated that it is no longer enriching uranium at any of its nuclear sites. This announcement has surprised many international observers.
According to Iranian officials, all facilities are now under the full monitoring of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The declaration comes at a time of heightened tension with the United States. While it may appear to signal a step toward de-escalation, analysts remain cautious.
Shift in Nuclear Posture
Iran’s senior diplomat, Tehran, offered the strongest confirmation to date. On Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that uranium enrichment across the country has been halted. This pause is due to recent attacks that damaged key nuclear facilities.
Araghchi spoke to an AP journalist visiting Tehran. He offered the most definitive update yet on Iran’s nuclear status. This update followed the June airstrikes by the United States and Israel targeting enrichment infrastructure.
“There is no undeclared nuclear enrichment in Iran. All of our facilities are under the safeguards and monitoring of the International Atomic Energy Agency,” he said. “There is no enrichment right now because our enrichment facilities have been attacked.”
Iran’s nuclear program has long been a flashpoint in its strained relationship with Washington. The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) placed limits on Iran’s enrichment activities in exchange for sanctions relief. It collapsed after the U.S. unilaterally withdrew in 2018.
Since then, Iran has steadily expanded its nuclear capabilities, enriching uranium well beyond the JCPOA’s limits.
Washington’s Dilemma
For the United States, Iran’s announcement presents both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, it could open the door to renewed dialogue. It could also reduce the risk of military confrontation in the Gulf.
On the other hand, skepticism is prevalent in Washington. Officials are wary of Tehran’s history of strategic ambiguity.
The Biden administration had previously attempted to revive the JCPOA, but talks stalled amid mutual distrust and shifting regional dynamics. With President Donald Trump back in office, the U.S. approach to Iran has hardened, making any diplomatic breakthrough more complex.
Meanwhile, the IAEA has yet to independently verify Iran’s claim. Until inspectors confirm that enrichment has ceased, the international community is likely to remain cautious. All facilities must operate transparently.
The nuclear watchdog shared a confidential report with member states. It stated that it has been unable to conduct the “long overdue” inspections. These inspections were meant for seven sites hit during the so-called 12-day war. These sites include key facilities at Fordo and Natanz.
According to a report, the nuclear watchdog emphasized the need to verify records of previously declared nuclear materials. This is to address concerns about their potential diversion from peaceful purposes.
The report criticized Iran for its limited cooperation. However, it confirmed that IAEA inspectors are scheduled to visit the country on Wednesday. They will carry out inspections at the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Centre, situated approximately 350 kilometers southeast of Tehran.
During the conflict, Israeli forces targeted structures at the Isfahan site. These targets included a uranium conversion facility. The United States also launched missile strikes on the location.
European powers, who have long advocated for a diplomatic solution, have welcomed the announcement but echoed calls for verification. Ultimately, Iran’s move may be less about nuclear policy and more about geopolitical positioning.
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