The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported a significant increase in Iran's production of highly enriched uranium, with levels reaching 60% enrichment, just below the 90% threshold required for nuclear weapons.

As of May 17, the total amount of this enriched uranium has reached 408.6 kg, representing an increase of 133.8 kg over the past three months, compared to an increase of 92 kg in the previous quarter.

This stockpile now exceeds the limit set by the 2015 nuclear agreement (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, JCPOA) by 45 times, totaling 9,247.6 kg of enriched uranium.

The IAEA has expressed concern over this significant production increase, describing Iran as the only non-nuclear-weapon state producing such nuclear material.

Tensions have escalated, particularly with Israel, which has accused Iran of being determined to complete its nuclear weapons program.

Israel maintains a historic opposition to Iran's nuclear capabilities.

Diplomatic discussions between Washington and Tehran have continued for several weeks, aimed at reaching an agreement to halt this nuclear escalation.

However, negotiations have faced challenges, particularly over uranium enrichment.

The United States demands a complete cessation of Iran's enrichment activities, while Tehran insists on its right to develop nuclear technologies for civilian purposes, citing its obligations under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

During a televised address, Abbas Araghchi, Iran's foreign minister, stated, "If the problem is nuclear weapons, then yes, we also consider that type of weapon unacceptable," acknowledging that the issue is a common concern with the United States.

He emphasized Iran's commitment to its peaceful nuclear program, although Western nations remain skeptical of Tehran's intentions, suspecting the pursuit of nuclear weapons capabilities.

President Donald Trump reiterated the stance that Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons and expressed that the U.S. and Iran are 'close' to an agreement.

However, Araghchi tempered this optimism, indicating uncertainty regarding the timeline for any potential agreement.

On May 23, meetings in Rome between Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff ended without significant progress, although both parties expressed willingness to continue discussions.

No new dates for negotiations have been established.

If a comprehensive agreement is reached, Iran has stated its willingness to permit American IAEA inspectors into the country, an action that would mark a notable shift in policy since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, indicated that cooperation on inspections could be considered, provided that Iran's demands are addressed.

The IAEA has previously criticized Iran for its inadequate cooperation, noting several instances where Iran either did not respond or failed to provide credible technical answers to the agency's inquiries.

The IAEA reported difficulties in verification activities at three undeclared sites: Lavisan-Shian, Varamin, and Turquzabad, where it indicated clearance activities had obstructed inspections.

The United States withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, reinstating severe sanctions against Iran.

In retaliation, Iran began to gradually breach the agreement's limitations, notably increasing its uranium enrichment levels beyond the 3.67% cap originally established.

Trump has signaled his intention to negotiate a new framework while also threatening military action should diplomatic efforts fail.