Iran's nuclear ambition: Secret project cuts bomb timeline
American intelligence reveals that Iran is forming a group of scientists to study rapid methods of building a nuclear bomb, potentially reducing the time needed from years to months.
American intelligence has disclosed that Iran has established a team of scientists to explore the possibilities of quickly building a nuclear bomb, as reported by "The New York Times." While the program has not yet been implemented, its execution could reduce the bomb's construction time from years to months.
Iran officially declares that its nuclear program does not have military purposes. However, in recent years, the country has significantly increased its production of enriched uranium. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran possesses approximately 440 pounds of uranium enriched to 60 percent, which is enough to build several atomic bombs. Further enrichment to the 90 percent level, required for military applications, would take only a few days.
According to "NYT", a secret team of Iranian scientists is studying faster, albeit more primitive, methods of building the bomb, which could allow its creation in a few months. Such a device would be outdated and challenging to transport, but it would enable Iran to quickly declare itself a nuclear power.
These reports have emerged in the context of Iran's weakened position on the international stage. In 2023-24, groups supported by Iran, such as Hamas and Hezbollah, were at war with Israel, but currently, uncertain ceasefires are in place. Additionally, Iran suffered severe losses in Israeli retaliatory attacks in 2024, which weakened its defensive capabilities.
Trump's talks with Netanyahu
The issue of Iran will be one of the topics discussed by Donald Trump with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu has long considered a preemptive strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, but has so far refrained under U.S. pressure. The situation may now change, although Trump previously declared a preference to resolve the Iran problem without military actions.
Iran is intensively developing its nuclear program, raising concerns on the international stage. Secret missions to Russia aim to enhance Tehran's military capabilities, including the development of the nuclear program. Iran seeks technological support, which could accelerate its progress in this field.
