Tehran: Iran has reaffirmed its retention of enriched uranium and its commitment to advancing its nuclear programme, even as international uncertainty surrounds the whereabouts of its stockpile following recent military strikes.
A senior aide to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared, “the game is not over,” underscoring Iran’s determination and signalling readiness to replenish and sustain uranium enrichment operations. The Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran confirmed that measures have been taken to minimise disruption, and recovery strategies are already in place, despite significant damage at key facilities.
International attention has sharpened on the fate of nearly 400 kg of uranium enriched to around 60%. The U.N.’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has publicly expressed concern over losing track of the material, which was last believed to be housed at facilities in Isfahan, Natanz, and Fordow .
According to reports, intelligence and satellite imagery suggest that Iran might have moved much of its enriched uranium — possibly from Fordow — to secret, undeclared sites days before the US and Israeli strikes.
Inspectors have acknowledged that, amid the chaos and violence, they cannot confirm the current location of the stockpile, raising fresh proliferation concerns.
US Vice President JD Vance said officials believe the uranium may have been buried under the targeted sites — an outcome he described as intentional — but admitted Tehran likely still retains control of the material and that discussions on its fate are forthcoming.
Iranian officials maintain that their nuclear programme is strictly for peaceful energy purposes, but their declaration of retained enrichment capabilities flies in the face of international concerns. One high-ranking aide warned authorities will “restart facilities on schedule,” emphasising resilience in the face of U.S. and Israeli strikes that reportedly “completely obliterated” bunker‑protected centrifuge sites.
Meanwhile, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has appealed for a cessation of hostilities to enable onsite inspections and confirm the physical state and location of Iran’s high‑enriched uranium.
With uranium enriched to near‑weapons grade and stockpiles unaccounted for, international fears are mounting about a potential clandestine pathway to nuclear arms. While Iran blames disruptions on military aggression and vows peaceful intent, global actors insist on transparency and oversight — conditions currently unmet.
Here’s what we know so far:
Item Details: Uranium Enrichment Level ~60% U‑235 (~400 kg estimated)
Last Known Facilities: Isfahan, Natanz, Fordow (stock uncertain)
Iran’s Official Stance: Enrichment to continue; stockpiles intact
IAEA Status: Unable to verify; seeks resumption of inspections
US Position: Stockpile may be buried but under Iran’s control; future dialogue planned
