Italian FM cites Israeli report: Tehran could produce 10 bombs by year-end

Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani revealed that, according to Israeli intelligence, Iran was on track to produce up to ten nuclear bombs within a six-month period.

Speaking during a joint session of the foreign affairs committees of both chambers of the Italian Parliament, Tajani cited the intelligence reports and emphasised the urgency of the situation.

"According to Israeli intelligence, Iran could have obtained 10 nuclear bombs in less than six months. Iran cannot have nuclear weapons," he declared, Caliber.Az reports, referencing Italian media.

He further noted that the seriousness of the threat is underscored by the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which outlines Iran’s violations of its commitments regarding uranium enrichment levels.

Tajani expressed cautious optimism about upcoming diplomatic efforts, saying he hoped the sixth round of US-Iran talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme — scheduled for 15 June in Muscat — would proceed as planned. 

"The Italian government is in favour of de-escalation. Now more than ever, it is necessary to maintain dialogue. Italy fully supports the US-Iran negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme," he said.

The minister also recalled that Rome had previously hosted two rounds of these negotiations, reaffirming Italy's commitment to supporting diplomatic solutions to prevent nuclear proliferation.

By Tamilla Hasanova