Fact Check: Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is up to 60%, not enough for a nuclear weapon.

Fact Check: "Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is up to 60%, not enough for a nuclear weapon."

What We Know

Iran has been enriching uranium to levels of up to 60%, which is just a short technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90% needed for a nuclear weapon. As of October 26, 2025, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that Iran had approximately 182.3 kilograms (401.9 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity, an increase of 17.6 kilograms since August of the same year (AP News). The IAEA also noted that Iran's total stockpile of enriched uranium stood at 6,604.4 kilograms, which includes uranium enriched at lower levels (AP News).

While uranium enriched to 60% is not yet weapons-grade, it is considered near weapons-grade and poses significant proliferation concerns. The IAEA has stated that around 42 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% could theoretically be enough to create one atomic weapon if further enriched to 90% (AP News).

Analysis

The claim that Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is up to 60% is accurate, as confirmed by multiple sources including the IAEA. However, the assertion that this level of enrichment is "not enough for a nuclear weapon" requires further context. While 60% enrichment is indeed not the same as 90% weapons-grade enrichment, it is dangerously close and poses a significant risk of rapid escalation to weaponization if Iran were to decide to increase enrichment further (BBC, Washington Post).

The reliability of the IAEA as a source is high, given its role as the international body responsible for monitoring nuclear programs. However, the situation is complicated by geopolitical factors, including Iran's ongoing tensions with the U.S. and Israel, which may influence its nuclear ambitions and the transparency of its nuclear activities (New York Times, Times of Israel).

Moreover, there are reports that Iran has moved some of its enriched uranium stockpile to undisclosed locations, which complicates verification efforts by international inspectors (New York Times). This lack of transparency raises concerns about the actual status of Iran's nuclear capabilities and intentions.

Conclusion

The claim that "Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is up to 60%, not enough for a nuclear weapon" is Partially True. While it is accurate that Iran has enriched uranium to 60%, which is not yet weapons-grade, the proximity of this level to weapons-grade enrichment (90%) and the potential for rapid escalation in enrichment capabilities make the situation more complex. Therefore, while the statement is factually correct, it downplays the significant risks associated with Iran's nuclear program.

Fact Check: Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is up to 60%, not enough for a nuclear weapon.