A U.S. intelligence assessment, released on July 10, 2023, stated that Iran is not currently pursuing nuclear weapons. However, the assessment highlighted Iran’s increased activities aimed at facilitating the development of such weapons, such as expanding its uranium production capacity.
Additionally, the assessment pointed out that Iran continues to violate the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal regarding uranium enrichment.
The response to the assessment was divided among experts. Some experts viewed it as a positive development that Iran is not actively seeking nuclear weapons, but they expressed concerns about the country’s ongoing uranium enrichment efforts.
On the other hand, there were those who questioned the credibility of the assessment and maintained that Iran is indeed actively pursuing nuclear weapons.
This assessment coincides with the ongoing indirect talks between the United States and Iran to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The JCPOA imposed limitations on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.
While the United States withdrew from the agreement in 2018, President Biden has indicated a willingness to rejoin if Iran complies with its provisions.
The impact of the intelligence assessment on the nuclear talks remains uncertain. However, it is likely to increase pressure on Iran to agree to a deal that prevents the development of nuclear weapons.
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