Iran is considering transferring its stockpile of 60% enriched uranium to China, a move that comes as negotiations with the United States continue. The consideration, reported by sources familiar with the matter, marks a potential shift in Tehran's nuclear strategy.
The uranium stockpile question
Uranium enriched to 60% purity is technically near weapons-grade, just a short step from the 90% threshold needed for a nuclear warhead. Iran has long insisted its nuclear program is peaceful, but the stockpile has drawn concern from Western nations. Transferring the material out of the country would reduce the amount of highly enriched uranium under Tehran's direct control — a move that could ease tensions.
Role of China
China has been involved in Iranian nuclear diplomacy in the past, and the proposed transfer would give Beijing a stake in the outcome of the talks. For Washington, any reduction in Iran's near-weapons-grade stockpile would be seen as a positive step. The negotiations have been focused on curbing Iran's enrichment activities in exchange for sanctions relief.
What comes next
The talks are ongoing, and no deadline has been set for a final decision on the uranium transfer. The outcome will depend on the broader negotiations between Iran and the US, which have been described as complex and fragile. For now, the proposal remains under consideration.
