Iran installs new centrifuges for uranium enrichment

Iran has significantly bolstered its uranium enrichment capabilities with the installation of four cascades of IR-6 centrifuges at the Fordow nuclear facility, according to a report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The move, which comes amidst ongoing negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, marks a notable escalation in Iran's nuclear activities. Previously, Tehran had indicated its intention to install a total of eight cascades, each containing 174 IR-6 centrifuges, at the underground site near the city of Qom, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

The IAEA confirmed the installation of the four cascades in its latest report, highlighting Iran's compliance with its nuclear obligations under the existing Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive the agreement.

"The agency observed that Iran did not specify when and to what level these facilities will start enriching uranium," the report stated, underscoring uncertainties about Iran's future nuclear intentions.

The Fordow facility, once covertly built inside a mountain to shield it from airstrikes, has been a focal point of international concerns over Iran's nuclear program. The installation of advanced centrifuges capable of enriching uranium more efficiently raises alarms among Western powers and Israel, who view Iran's nuclear activities as a major regional security threat.