Iran reduces enriched uranium stockpile
Islamic republic's nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi says stocks have fallen from 240 kilograms to around 140 kilograms as it is converted into fuel for a medical research reactor
The announcement appeared aimed at easing Western concerns over Iran's continuing production of 20% uranium, which is enriched to a higher level that used to fuel most energy reactors, closer to the 90% needed for a warhead.
Related stories:
- Netanyahu: Message to Syria will be received in Iran
- Report: US, Iran laying groundwork for talks
- US loosens sanctions on Iran for disaster relief, sports
The US and its allies demand Iran halt all enrichment, which Tehran rejects.
Iran's nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi told state TV late Thursday that stocks have fallen from 240 kilograms to around 140 kilograms as it is converted into fuel for a medical research reactor. He said the remainder is also being converted.
An August report by the UN nuclear watchdog put Iran's stockpile 20% enriched uranium at 185.5 kilograms.
Iranian President Hassan Rohani said on Friday that he wanted a swift resolution to a dispute over Tehran's nuclear program, which Western states fear is aimed at developing nuclear weapons.
"Regarding the Iranian nuclear issue, we want the swiftest solution to it within international norms. Russia in the past has taken important steps in this sphere," said Rohani, speaking at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin
- Receive Ynetnews updates
directly to your desktop
