Iran makes statement on nuclear issue

Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi. Photo: Getty

Speaking at a press conference broadcast live on television, Mr. Kamalvandi stated: “Today (June 17) - the preparation phase to surpass the 300 kg enriched uranium reserve limit has begun and within 10 days... we will surpass this limit.”

Kamalvandi’s statement came from the Arak nuclear plant in southwestern Iran. The Iranian official stressed that “this is based on Articles 26 and 36 of the nuclear deal and will be reversed once other parties to the deal comply with their commitments.”

Tehran could increase uranium enrichment to 20% for use in its own reactors, Kamalvandi said, adding that there was still time for European countries to take action to help protect the Islamic Republic from Washington’s sanctions, but Europe needed to show its support through actions, not just words.

Iran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with the P5+1 group (including the UK, US, Russia, France, China and Germany) in 2015. Under the JCPOA, Iran would have to limit its nuclear program, which the West fears could lead to the development of a nuclear bomb.

In return, Western nations agreed to lift all sanctions against Tehran. However, in 2018, the US unilaterally withdrew from the deal and reimposed sanctions on Iran. This move is believed to be the cause of current tensions between Washington and Tehran.

In May, Tehran announced it would “reduce” its commitments under the nuclear deal, specifically increasing uranium enrichment levels. This is also the deadline that Iran requires the remaining countries participating in the deal - Britain, China, Russia, France and Germany - to fulfill commitments related to the oil and banking sectors to circumvent US sanctions and promote trade.

However, so far, Europe has not come up with any measures to help Iran avoid US sanctions.

Lan Ha