IAEA Warns Iran Nuclear Stockpile Could Yield 10 Bombs

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported in a confidential document that it cannot verify the size, composition, or location of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, creating a serious nuclear proliferation concern. Director General Rafael Grossi warned that the estimated 440.9 kilograms of 60% purity uranium could potentially produce up to 10 nuclear bombs.

The agency has lost continuity of knowledge over previously declared nuclear materials following military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel in June 2025 and again in February 2026. Apart from a visit to the Bushehr nuclear power plant from June 1 to June 3, 2026, the IAEA has been unable to inspect most affected facilities for nearly a year.

These developments occur amid a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran. President Donald Trump has demanded the surrender or destruction of the uranium stockpile, while claiming Tehran conceded it would not seek a nuclear weapon. Meanwhile, regional tensions persist, marked by an ongoing U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and a June 3 Iranian drone attack on a passenger terminal at Kuwait's main airport. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has cautioned against speculation regarding the stalled diplomatic negotiations.