Tehran, Nov 23 (V7N) — Iran, a prominent power in the Middle East, has announced its intention to accelerate its nuclear program, brushing aside international sanctions. The decision comes as a direct response to a condemnation proposal adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), accusing Iran of non-cooperation on its nuclear activities. The announcement was reported by The New York Times.

On Thursday, the IAEA passed the resolution brought forward by the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany, condemning Iran for its lack of transparency regarding its nuclear program. Within 24 hours, Tehran retaliated with a firm commitment to advancing its nuclear capabilities.

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization confirmed the decision, emphasizing that the steps are vital for protecting the nation’s security and interests. Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesperson for the organization, stated, “The West aims to dismantle our nuclear infrastructure through pressure tactics, but Iran will respond by significantly increasing its enrichment capacity.”

Iran plans to enhance its uranium enrichment process by installing advanced centrifuges with higher efficiency and torque.

The country's uranium stockpile, already 60% enriched, is set to expand further, moving closer to weapons-grade levels (90% enrichment required for nuclear weapons).

The measures come as the IAEA reported Iran's uranium reserves to be 32 times the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) limits.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and focused on national security. “These advancements are necessary for protecting Iran’s sovereignty against unjust pressures,” said Kamalvandi. He added that Western efforts to stifle Iran’s nuclear progress are losing global support.

The IAEA resolution has sparked further tensions between Iran and Western powers. While Iran’s rapid nuclear advancements are seen as a challenge to international diplomacy, the country argues that the JCPOA framework has failed due to Western nations' lack of compliance with their commitments.

The enrichment process, pivotal in nuclear technology, involves separating uranium isotopes using centrifuges. The newly proposed centrifuges in Iran are expected to increase the efficiency of uranium enrichment significantly.

This escalation raises concerns about regional stability and the potential for a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. The international community is watching closely as Tehran pushes forward with its controversial nuclear agenda.

END/RH/AJ