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U.S. Weighs Risky Seizure or Diplomacy as Iran’s 60% Uranium Stockpile Remains Unverified

Independent experts report no evidence Iran is close to a nuclear weapon.

Overview

  • Iran held about 441 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% as of June 2025, and the IAEA says inspectors have since lost routine access, with Rafael Grossi indicating the material is mainly at Isfahan in buried facilities.
  • Some stock is also believed to remain at Natanz and Fordow, while entrances at Isfahan were sealed in February, deepening uncertainty about the material’s exact location and condition.
  • President Trump’s claims of a two-to-four week breakout and of having obliterated Iran’s enrichment are disputed by nuclear specialists, who note further enrichment and complex weaponization steps would still be required.
  • Military planners and experts describe a raid to seize or destroy the stockpile as technically possible yet daunting, likely requiring a battalion-sized force, sustained air cover, secure lift to or from the Isfahan area, and specialized nuclear-handling teams.
  • UF6 cylinders pose severe hazards if breached or mishandled, and with the safeguards chain broken, experts outline two main paths: a high-risk operation to remove or neutralize the material or negotiations to restore IAEA access and downblend it under supervision.