IAEA's Grossi says transfer of Iran's enriched uranium difficult but feasible

The head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog said transferring Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium out of the country would be technically challenging but remains possible, as discussions continue over measures aimed at addressing concerns about Tehran's nuclear programme.

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), told Al Jazeera that Iran currently possesses around 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, a level close to weapons-grade purity.

Grossi said a proposal repeatedly raised by U.S. President Donald Trump involves moving the enriched uranium abroad, but noted that implementing such a plan would be operationally complex.

"The transfer is difficult, but not impossible," Grossi said, explaining that the material is stored in gaseous form and presents contamination risks that complicate handling and transportation.

He added that another option under discussion is to dilute the uranium or reduce its enrichment level, making it less sensitive from a proliferation standpoint.

Grossi said the issues are being examined by the parties involved in the negotiations, although the IAEA is not directly participating in the talks.

The agency chief said he has been holding separate discussions with officials in Tehran and Washington in an effort to help ensure that any future agreement can be effectively implemented and verified.

By Aghakazim Guliyev