Iran Increases IAEA Inspections Amid Uranium Enrichment

Iran has confirmed it will not obstruct access for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to its nuclear facilities, following an increase in uranium enrichment at its Fordow site to nearly 60%, close to the weapons-grade threshold of 90%. Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, stated that the increase in nuclear activities necessitates heightened inspections by the IAEA, and assured there are no barriers to the agency's operations. This comes amidst international concerns regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, prompting Britain, France, and Germany to condemn Iran's actions and suggest a potential restoration of UN sanctions. Eslami attributed some criticisms of Iran's nuclear program to propaganda from Israel, emphasizing Iran's commitment to peaceful nuclear energy use. The IAEA has reported that Iran plans to further enhance its uranium production, adding pressure to its nuclear program. Iran insists it operates under the framework of international safeguards, including the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).