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Why Iran’s Uranium Stockpile Matters So Much And Why US, China, Russia Want Control

TOI.in / Apr 25, 2026, 15.41 PM IST

Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile has become the central issue in renewed global nuclear diplomacy, with the United States demanding tighter control, Russia offering storage assistance, and China emerging as a possible neutral stakeholder. Tehran has firmly rejected any transfer of its uranium abroad, calling it a matter of sovereignty and national pride. Experts say Iran’s uranium enriched up to 60 percent purity is far closer to weapons-grade levels than standard civilian reactor fuel, making it a major international concern. Former US President Donald Trump referred to the material as “nuclear dust,” suggesting recoverable uranium may still remain inside damaged underground facilities and storage sites. Russia’s willingness to hold the stockpile and China’s strategic ties with Iran have added new diplomatic dimensions to the standoff. The future of any Iran nuclear agreement may now depend on what happens to this uranium reserve.Slike Description: Iran’s uranium stockpile is at the center of rising global tensions, with Washington seeking removal of the material while Tehran refuses to surrender control. Iran says its enriched uranium is tied to sovereignty and scientific progress, while Western powers see the stockpile as a security risk due to enrichment levels reportedly reaching 60 percent purity. Donald Trump described the material as “nuclear dust,” referring to uranium that may still be recoverable from damaged nuclear sites. Russia has offered to store the uranium under a future deal, while China is seen as another possible diplomatic option. Analysts say the fate of this stockpile could determine whether fresh nuclear negotiations succeed or collapse.

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