Iran Moves 400 Kilograms of 60% Enriched Uranium Before Airstrikes

Iran has reportedly moved over 400 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% before the U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear facilities. This development raises significant concerns about the whereabouts and condition of this highly enriched uranium, which could have serious implications for global security and the economy.

The airstrikes targeted three of Iran’s major nuclear sites — Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The U.S. President confirmed that the strikes involved bunker-busting bombs, claiming the sites were “obliterated.” However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which monitors Iran’s nuclear program, has stated that the real damage is still unknown, especially at Fordow, the underground facility responsible for producing most of Iran’s high-level enriched uranium.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA, indicated that while the centrifuges were likely badly damaged, there is no clear evidence yet that the actual stockpile of nearly 9 tonnes of uranium, including the 400+ kg enriched close to weapons-grade, was hit. Grossi also revealed that Iran had notified him on June 13, just hours before Israel launched its first attacks, that it was “taking measures to protect its nuclear equipment and materials.” This notification suggests that the uranium may have been relocated to safer locations.

One diplomat familiar with the situation stated that much of the enriched uranium from Fordow appeared to have been moved “days in advance,” almost as if Tehran was warned. A satellite image showing trucks lined up near the facility before the strike supports this claim. However, the U.S. President dismissed this possibility, insisting that moving such heavy material would be very difficult. Defense Secretary also stated that there was no intelligence proving Iran relocated its uranium.

The search for the material is now a lengthy process. Olli Heinonen, a former top inspector at the IAEA, noted that verifying the stockpile’s status could take months. This involves forensics, environmental samples, and complex recovery operations. The uncertainty surrounding the whereabouts of the enriched uranium has significant implications for global markets, as nuclear uncertainty can lead to increased oil prices, supply chain disruptions, and government hoarding.

Iran has denied any wrongdoing and has accused the IAEA of helping justify the airstrikes by providing diplomatic cover. The IAEA denies this claim and has stated that there is no solid evidence of a coordinated weapons program in Iran. However, without knowing what happened to the 400 kg of enriched uranium, governments are forced to make their own risk assessments. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the outcome of these events and their impact on global security.