In recent weeks, Iran has taken radical steps to protect its strategic stockpiles of highly enriched uranium. According to US intelligence data, Tehran has partially collapsed the tunnels where the material is stored and mined the entrances to the storage facilities. This was reported by CNN citing five sources.
Difficult Access to Weapons-Grade Uranium
According to the publication's sources, access to approximately half a ton of uranium enriched to a level close to weapons-grade has become significantly more difficult. While the situation was different a month ago, removing or controlling this material now requires colossal resources. The physical protection of the facilities has been strengthened, making any operations to seize the stockpiles extremely risky.
Impact on Negotiations with the US
Iran's actions are creating serious obstacles for potential agreements with Washington. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that control over uranium stockpiles is one of the main priorities in negotiations with Tehran. Currently, options for removing the material from the country or destroying it on-site are being considered.
However, as sources note, complicating access to the storage facilities casts doubt on the feasibility of these plans. The exact terms of the agreement have not yet been determined, and significant disagreements remain between the parties regarding the deal's conditions.
Where the Uranium is Stored and the Risks
According to estimates by international bodies, the main part of the strategic stockpiles is located in collapsed tunnels at the nuclear complex in Isfahan. Some of the material may be distributed across other facilities, the exact locations of which remain unknown.
Experts, including former officials from US nuclear agencies, warn of long-term consequences. Complicating access to storage facilities now may create additional risks for controlling the use of uranium in the future. If the facilities are isolated from external observation, non-proliferation guarantees may be violated.
Iran's Position
Tehran has not yet made a final decision regarding an agreement with the US. Iranian authorities state that they do not intend to compromise on their "red lines," maintaining a firm position on the nuclear program.