Iran's Nuclear Breakout Capability: Blinken's Warning

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has issued a warning regarding Iran's nuclear breakout capability, stating that Tehran could be in a position to build a nuclear weapon within a matter of weeks or even days. This assessment comes as a result of Iran's increased stockpile of near-weapons-grade uranium since the US unilaterally pulled out from the landmark Iran nuclear deal in 2018.

Blinken emphasized that after the nuclear agreement was abandoned, Iran's timeline for producing the fissile material needed for a nuclear weapon has been dramatically reduced. Instead of being at least a year away from having the breakout capacity, Iran is now probably one or two weeks away from achieving this capability. It's important to note that Iran has not yet produced a weapon itself, but the situation is being closely monitored.

US Policy and Iran's Nuclear Program

Blinken stressed that the US policy is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also highlighted the importance of Iran demonstrating its seriousness about engaging with the US on nuclear issues by pulling back on its atomic program. Additionally, the US continues to increase sanctions pressure on Tehran in an effort to influence its behavior.

Iran's Nuclear Program and International Agreements

According to a May report by the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iran has more than 140 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, which is a significant increase from the 3.67% enrichment level agreed upon in the 2015 nuclear deal. This underscores Iran's continued advancement in its nuclear program, despite the terms of the previous agreement.

The US withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, which was designed to regulate Iran's atomic activities in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions, has been cited as a key factor in the acceleration of Iran's nuclear capabilities. The current administration under President Joe Biden has been attempting to revive the deal, but talks have stalled, with Iran seeking guarantees from the US to prevent future withdrawal from the agreement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the assessment provided by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding Iran's nuclear breakout capability is a matter of significant concern. The potential for Iran to produce fissile material for a nuclear weapon within a matter of weeks or even days underscores the urgency of addressing this issue through diplomatic efforts and international cooperation.

Please note that the information provided is based on the assessment and statements made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the subsequent developments in Iran's nuclear program.