Manama, Bahrain – The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has raised serious concerns over Iran’s acceleration of uranium enrichment, describing the development as “very worrisome” and a potential turning point in regional and global security.

Speaking at the Manama Dialogue conference in Bahrain, Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), highlighted that Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60%, a level just shy of the 90% purity required for nuclear weapons.

Grossi emphasized the implications of Tehran’s actions, noting the potential destabilization of the Middle East and its global repercussions.

Increased Enrichment Amid Regional Tensions

According to a report presented to IAEA governors on Friday, inspectors confirmed that Iran has begun enriching uranium at a much faster pace at its Fordow nuclear facility, south of Tehran.

The facility now produces 34 kilograms (75 pounds) of 60% enriched uranium per month, a stark rise from the previous 4.7 kilograms.

Grossi explained that the changes in Fordow’s operations, achieved by feeding partially enriched uranium into advanced centrifuge cascades, have substantially enhanced the facility’s output.

“The Iran of 2015 has nothing to do with Iran of 2025,” Grossi said. “Their nuclear program has grown in every possible direction, with capabilities to reach a nuclear device much faster if they so choose.”

This significant escalation comes against the backdrop of Tehran’s military and diplomatic challenges in Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza. Analysts believe the enrichment move could be Tehran’s way of asserting regional influence after recent setbacks.

Reassurances and Contradictions

Grossi, who visited Tehran last month, said Iranian officials assured him they would limit the production of 60% enriched uranium. However, the IAEA’s latest findings contradict these commitments, raising questions about Iran’s long-term intentions.

While Iran has consistently denied pursuing a military nuclear program, its expanding capabilities have heightened fears among regional neighbors and global powers.

Grossi acknowledged that certain factions within Iran are advocating for nuclear weapons development, though the government has yet to officially adopt this path.

“In my conversations with the government, it doesn’t seem to be their path of choice,” Grossi told the BBC. “However, they sometimes refer to this as something they might need to reconsider. I hope not. I’ve told them it would be a regrettable choice.”

Diplomatic Stalemate and Regional Implications

The timing of Iran’s decision to ramp up enrichment coincides with stalled negotiations between Iranian and European officials.

Talks aimed at reviving the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, have made little progress.

Meanwhile, Israel has expressed growing alarm over Iran’s nuclear advances. Israeli ministers have openly discussed the possibility of preemptive strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Grossi warned against such action, stressing the severe consequences.

“I don’t think this would go without an answer, militarily speaking, so I think we need to avoid this,” Grossi cautioned.

“A significant portion of Iran’s nuclear program is underground and well-protected, meaning any kinetic action would require a vast deployment of force. I hope we don’t reach that point.”

He also pointed to the potential radiological consequences of an attack on nuclear facilities, which could spread contamination across the region.

Growing Normalization of Nuclear Weapons Discussions

Grossi expressed concern over the broader implications of Iran’s nuclear trajectory and the strain on global non-proliferation efforts. Established nuclear powers are modernizing their arsenals, he noted, creating a ripple effect that could inspire other nations to pursue their own nuclear capabilities.

“There are countries saying, ‘Why not us?’ If we see a world with new conflicts and the big powers suggesting they might use nuclear weapons, others are questioning their own security,” Grossi said.

This shift in discourse, where the use and acquisition of nuclear weapons are becoming normalized, presents a grave challenge to international peace and stability, he added.

Calls for Safeguards and Transparency

The IAEA has urged Iran to implement additional safeguards at Fordow to ensure the facility is not being misused to produce weapons-grade uranium. Such measures, Grossi said, are critical for the agency to provide “timely and technically credible assurances” that Iran’s program remains peaceful.

The watchdog’s report underscores the urgency, emphasizing the need for immediate transparency to prevent diversion of nuclear materials for non-declared purposes.

A Widening Divide in Global Security

Grossi’s comments come at a time when the Middle East faces a precarious balance of power. Iran’s nuclear advancements have already triggered responses from regional actors, including increased military readiness in Israel and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations.

The IAEA chief underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing the issue. He urged both Iran and international stakeholders to return to negotiations, emphasizing that a military confrontation would have catastrophic consequences.

“Diplomatic solutions are the only way forward,” Grossi said. “The alternative would not only destabilize the region but also erode the global non-proliferation regime that has safeguarded us for decades.”

A Critical Juncture

The escalation at Fordow represents a critical juncture for Iran’s nuclear program and the broader international community.

As Tehran inches closer to the threshold of nuclear weapons capability, the need for effective oversight and renewed negotiations grows ever more pressing.

Grossi’s warning serves as a reminder of the stakes involved: not just for the Middle East, but for global security and the fragile balance of power underpinning the nuclear order.