The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that Iran is storing most of its highly enriched uranium at an underground tunnel complex in Isfahan, urging Tehran to permit inspections amid increasing U.S. pressure over its nuclear program.

The IAEA report confirmed Iran is enriching uranium up to 60%, close to weapons-grade levels, raising concerns over limited access to the Isfahan site. The agency stated it observed "regular vehicular activity" around the tunnel entrance via satellite imagery, emphasizing the need for prompt inspections.

Iran has not immediately commented. The report follows a third round of indirect U.S.-Iran talks mediated by Oman in Geneva, which yielded no breakthrough. The issue will be discussed at the IAEA's 35-country board meeting in Vienna next week.

The fate of Iran's stockpile of over 400kg of 60% enriched uranium remains uncertain. Last June, Israel launched strikes on Iran, triggering a 12-day war where the U.S. briefly bombed Iranian nuclear sites. Iran suspended some cooperation with the IAEA and restricted inspector access to bombed facilities.

Analysts note that uranium stockpiles and inspections are key sticking points in U.S.-Iran discussions, with Iran accusing the IAEA of bias and the U.S. demanding broader concessions.

Source: www.aljazeera.com