International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi has issued a stark warning that Iran could restart uranium enrichment within months, despite recent US and Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear infrastructure. In a televised interview, Grossi emphasized that while Iran’s facilities suffered damage, its technical knowledge and industrial capacity remain intact, making a rapid nuclear rebound possible.
⚛️ “You Can’t Undo Knowledge”: Grossi’s Key Remarks
“You cannot disinvent this. You cannot undo the knowledge or the capacities that you have,” Grossi told CBS News, adding that Iran remains a sophisticated nuclear-capable nation despite military setbacks.
He clarified that Iran does not currently possess nuclear weapons, but its stockpile of 60% enriched uranium—if further refined—could theoretically yield material for over nine nuclear bombs.
🧪 Enrichment Timeline and Facility Status
- Iran could restart centrifuge cascades and resume enrichment “in a matter of months or less”, Grossi said
- Some nuclear infrastructure is “still standing” despite the June 13 strikes by Israel and the US
- The IAEA is uncertain whether Iran relocated or lost its estimated 408.6 kg of enriched uranium during the attacks
Grossi also revealed that unexplained uranium traces were found at undeclared sites, raising further concerns about transparency.
🛑 Iran Suspends IAEA Cooperation
In response to the strikes and ongoing scrutiny:
- Iranian lawmakers have suspended cooperation with the IAEA
- Tehran has denied Grossi’s request to inspect damaged sites, including the Fordo enrichment facility
Grossi stressed the need for verification access to confirm the status of Iran’s nuclear material and infrastructure.
🌍 Geopolitical Implications
The warning comes amid a fragile ceasefire following Operation Rising Lion, Israel’s coordinated strike on Iranian nuclear and military targets. While US officials claim the attacks set Iran’s program back “decades,” Grossi’s assessment suggests a much shorter recovery window.
Stay tuned for developments on IAEA inspections and regional nuclear diplomacy.
