Iran's Offer to Cap Uranium Enrichment Faces Western Push for Resolution at IAEA

Iran has attempted to avert a Western push for a resolution against it at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors meeting by offering to cap its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a level close to weapons-grade. This offer, however, is contingent on Western powers abandoning their effort to condemn Iran for its lack of cooperation with the IAEA.

The IAEA's latest reports, seen by diplomats, reveal that Iran has made preparations to halt the expansion of its uranium stockpile, currently at around 182 kg, which could theoretically be enough for up to four nuclear weapons if further enriched. This step comes after a visit by IAEA chief Rafael Grossi to Tehran, where discussions were held about Iran's uranium enrichment levels and potential future cooperation.

Despite Iran's offer, Western diplomats remain skeptical. They view it as a temporary measure aimed at avoiding a formal censure, much like a similar pledge made by Tehran in March 2023, which was never fully implemented. Critics argue that stopping the enrichment of uranium to 60% is insufficient, as it could easily be resumed at any moment, given there is no credible civilian use for uranium at that purity level.

Meanwhile, the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom are pushing forward with a draft resolution at the IAEA condemning Iran’s nuclear activities. The resolution aims to pressure Iran to return to the negotiating table for renewed talks on restricting its nuclear program, as the 2015 nuclear deal has largely unraveled. This resolution, backed by a comprehensive report on Iran’s nuclear activities, is expected to pass, with Russia and China being the only countries likely to oppose it.

As the IAEA’s quarterly meeting continues, the international community is closely monitoring Iran’s next steps, especially with the upcoming expiration of the 2015 deal’s curbs in October 2025. Iran’s offer to cap uranium enrichment may temporarily stall further tensions, but it remains to be seen whether it can prevent the full return of Western pressure at the UN.