Iran’s uranium has become a geopolitical flashpoint because of how close parts of it are to weapons-grade. Enrichment—the process of increasing the share of the isotope Uranium-235 isotope—determines its use: low levels power reactors, but around 90% purity can enable nuclear weapons. Reports suggest Iran holds about 450 kg enriched to roughly 60%, which significantly shortens the time needed to reach weapons-grade, making it strategically sensitive. This is why the United States, Russia, and China are all vying for influence over the stockpile. Tehran insists its program is peaceful, but control of this material could shift the balance of power in global nuclear diplomacy.
E-Paper
