Iran warns of weapon-grade uranium enrichment if US attacks again amid nuclear tensions

Iran has warned that it could raise uranium enrichment to weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent if it is attacked again by the United States or Israel, escalating tensions amid stalled nuclear negotiations.

The warning comes as diplomatic efforts remain deadlocked and reports suggest continued military planning discussions in Washington regarding Iran’s nuclear programme.

A spokesperson for Iran’s parliamentary commission, Ebrahim Rezaei, said that increasing enrichment to 90 per cent is among the options being considered if hostilities resume.

“One of Iran’s options in the event of another attack could be 90 per cent enrichment,” Rezaei said in a post on social media platform X, adding that the matter would be reviewed by parliament.

Currently, Iran’s uranium stockpile has drawn international concern. According to the United Nations nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iran holds around 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60 per cent purity — a level just below the 90 per cent threshold considered weapons-grade.

Experts note that uranium enrichment becomes progressively easier as purity levels rise, making the transition from 60 per cent to 90 per cent significantly less complex than earlier stages.

The warning also comes amid heightened rhetoric between Washington and Tehran. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that Iran will not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons and has warned of military action if necessary.

Trump has described Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile as a key security concern and has said the US is closely monitoring nuclear sites. He has also warned of a strong response if Iran moves closer to weapons capability.

Tensions have further intensified following the breakdown of recent diplomatic talks. Reports indicate that Iran had proposed limited uranium dilution and transfer arrangements as part of negotiations, but no agreement was reached.

The IAEA continues to monitor Iran’s nuclear programme, though access restrictions and security concerns have limited full verification of stockpile locations and conditions.

Iran has maintained that its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes, including energy and research, while Western nations continue to express concern over its rapid enrichment activities.