A new report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reveals that Iran conducted multiple implosion tests, an essential component of nuclear bomb design, over 20 years ago, raising renewed concerns about its nuclear ambitions.
According to The Jerusalem Post, which cites the confidential report, the IAEA found that Iran conducted implosion tests involving neutron initiators, devices used to trigger nuclear explosions, at the Lavizan-Shian site on February 15 and July 3, 2003. The report also references explosive testing at Marivan site on April 15, 2003.
The report states that implosion tests are exclusively associated with military nuclear programs and serve no civilian purpose.
The news outlet noted that while much of the activity detailed dates back more than 20 years, Iran’s prior progress could enable a rapid push toward nuclear weapons development as early as 2025.
“The fact that it carried out various explosive tests also suggests that Iran is further along in other skills needed for developing a nuclear bomb, besides just enriching uranium, than many observers may have thought,” the report states.
The Institute for Science and International Security, led by David Albright, said the findings suggest Iran retains the technical knowledge to resume weapons work rapidly if it chooses. The think tank called on the IAEA Board of Governors to refer Iran’s violations to the U.N. Security Council.
IAEA Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi earlier said that Iran has not built a nuclear weapon but possesses sufficient fissile material to do so. He warned that a breakdown in diplomacy could trigger military escalation.
“If there is a failure in negotiation, this will imply most probably military action,” Grossi told the Financial Times.
Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, but its recent moves, including alleged uranium enrichment to near-weapons-grade levels and restricted inspector access, have drawn sharp criticism.
Meanwhile, the IAEA Board of Governors is scheduled to meet from June 10 to 13 in Vienna, where it is expected to vote on a resolution criticizing Iran for its lack of cooperation.
Tehran has warned it will scale back cooperation with the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog if a critical resolution is adopted at the agency’s upcoming board meeting.
