Iran's Nuclear Program: A Timeline of Key Events
2008: US Refuses to Rule Out Nuclear Attack on Iran
In 2008, the United States repeatedly refused to rule out the possibility of using nuclear weapons in an attack on Iran. This stance was outlined in the US Nuclear Posture Review, which stated that the US "reserves the right to use nuclear weapons to deter or respond to nuclear attack by any adversary."
2021: Iran Enriches Uranium to 60% Purity
In 2021, Iran began enriching uranium to up to 60% purity, which is significantly higher than the 3.67% level permitted under the 2015 nuclear deal. This move raised concerns that Iran was moving closer to developing nuclear weapons.
2015: Iran Agrees to Nuclear Deal
In 2015, Iran agreed to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran nuclear deal. Under the terms of the deal, Iran agreed to limit its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of international sanctions.
2020: Iran Cuts Back on Nuclear Inspections
In 2020, Iran began limiting the access of inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to its nuclear facilities. This move was seen as a violation of the JCPOA.
2021: IAEA Discovers Highly Enriched Uranium Particles
In 2021, the IAEA discovered uranium particles enriched to 83.7% purity at Iran's underground nuclear facility at Fordow. This level of enrichment is very close to weapons grade.
2021: Iran Blames Israel for Nuclear Scientist's Murder and Enrichment Plant Attack
In 2021, Iran accused Israel of being responsible for the assassination of its top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, and an attack on its uranium enrichment plant at Natanz.
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