The Hindu: Published on 28th June 2025:
Why in News?
The recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, especially Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan, aimed to set back Iran’s nuclear weapons program. However, reports suggest that Iran moved its 60% enriched uranium stockpile before the strikes, keeping the core of its nuclear capability intact.
Background:
Iran has been enriching uranium up to 60%, just below the 90% required for weapons-grade material. The 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) limited Iran’s enrichment to 3.67%, but the U.S. withdrew from the deal in 2018. Since then, Iran has accelerated its enrichment program, creating international alarm.
Key Issues:
The 60% enriched uranium stockpile remains largely untouched.
Iran’s technical knowhow to make nuclear weapons remains unaffected.
The bombing may have strengthened Iran’s internal resolve and global sympathy.
Iran may use its nuclear position as a bargaining chip, claiming peaceful intent.
Strategic Implications:
Iran could reduce its nuclear "breakout time" to a matter of days.
The strikes failed to destroy Iran’s underground enrichment infrastructure.
Iran may consider leaving the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), increasing regional instability.
A proliferation cascade may follow with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others pursuing nuclear options.
Domestic and International Reactions:
Iran’s Parliament has passed a resolution to limit cooperation with the IAEA.
Tehran accused IAEA of leaking sensitive data to Israel.
Some experts believe the strikes have politically backfired, increasing Iran’s justification for nuclear defense.
Way Ahead:
- The international community must reinstate negotiations to avoid further escalation.
- Transparency through IAEA inspections should be restored.
- Iran may continue to exploit its ambiguous position — not having a bomb, but having the means and motive.
